Title: Neroon's Penance 2: Deliverance

by Morgana

Fandom Babylon 5

Pairing: Marcus/Naroon

Rating: NC 17

Summary: This is the sequel to Neroon's penance in with a bit more mysticm to it

SPOILER WARNING;SPOILERS UP TO THE BEGINNING OF SEASON 4

DISCLAIMER; THESE CHARACTERS AND BABYLON 5 ARE ALL PROPERTY OF JMS, NO COPYRIGHT INFRINGEMENT IS INTENDED

Prologue; The Book Of Sylvan.

Lorien sighed and somewhere in the immense universe a star reached supernova and exploded; shattering millions of star fragments into the tapestry of planets and dark holes. Ever aware of the repercussions his feelings had on the universe, Lorien regained control of his emotions. Looking down at the body in which he had revealed himself to John Sheridan, he smiled sadly. This body was just one way to manifest himself in the universe; he could have chosen another.

His very essence lay inside the immortal shell that contained his soul; an essence human minds would never be able to comprehend. There was a reason for his melancholy. He had retreated to this hidden place between the stars after uncovering a book he had once buried deep within a pulsating sun; the ultimate source of light. This sun was dying now, and after he had retrieved the book it had guarded for so long it exploded, creating a sizzling heat, which posed no threat to the First-One.

Peace and quiet marked this hidden place and Lorien realized that the time had come to remember the one child he had lost so many eons ago. Sylvan...The name still lingered in Lorien's mind and the First-One remembered his beauty. Lorien still blamed himself for losing this special child; he should have protected Sylvan better.

The golden colored book in front of him called to him to open it. On the cover had been written a single word; Sylvan. Shining crystals formed the name. These crystals had been formed as Lorien had cried for the first time in his immortal life. That time Lorien had experienced pain and grief. The First-One still felt the ache inside his very essence and knew it would never leave. In an effort to lessen that pain he had learned not to think of his child too often, but this time he had been given no choice. The time had come to face once more what had happened so long ago.

Opening the book, a blinding light emanated from the pages and they turned by themselves until the page Lorien was looking for had been found. Lorien didn't have to look at the words; they were imprinted in his mind. He spoke the first sentence in a whispering tone, almost afraid as if to alert the other one by mentioning Sylvan's name out loud.

" Two First-Ones were born together with the first races of this universe. "

Lorien's eyes softened as he read the first name. " Sylvan was the first child and more beautiful than a star- lit sky. His soul only held goodness and innocence. The light within him was a burning torch and he brought love to the new races of this universe. Sylvan's radiance brought light to the galaxies...and then it grew weak. That was the moment his twin brother came into existence; Sardon."

Lorien knew that Sylvan's light needed a counterpart and allowed Sardon to enter the universe. He still regretted that decision; it had cost him so dearly. " The darkness and evil inside Sardon were more powerful than one can ever imagine. With one thought he was able to eliminate entire races and the universe shivered as Sardon released his power to challenge Sylvan. The darkness couldn't accept the presence of light. Sardon was determined to rip Sylvan's essence apart until it faded to nothingness. Sylvan, unaware of his brother's evil intentions, accepted Sardon's invitation to build an everlasting peace between them. Sylvan tried to embrace his brother and banish the ultimate evil from Sardon's soul by wrapping his light around Sardon. The Dark One had been repelled and ran. His unspoken threat to destroy Sylvan was the only thing that remained."

Lorien watched the page turn and felt his eyes begin to water. Sylvan had been the one who had taught him the meaning of regret, love, and compassion. Experiencing those emotions had changed Lorien. His heart grew heavy as he remembered that dreadful encounter between his two children.

"Sardon's darkness had grown in strength. His black soul was now filled with a terrible longing to crush Sylvan. Then he would feed off his brother's pain and fear. Sardon desperately needed those emotions to stay strong. He lured Sylvan to a planet called Zha'ha'dum by creating a deadly disease. The planet was inhabited by a young race that would come to be called the Shadows. They were expendable in Sardon's view. The Shadows were suffering tremendously and many of them were dying. Sylvan, who felt the pain these creatures were in, was drawn to the planet to see if he could ease their suffering. He had no idea that it was a trap. Sylvan lowered his defences to aid the Shadows and Sardon struck. His attack was swift and vicious. Both being bodiless essences consisting only of energy and soul, Sardon smothered that energy with his darkness. He ripped the essence apart, leaving the soul naked and quivering. Sylvan's soul was weak without his energy and couldn't fight the darkness crushing him."

Lorien relived the pain as he remembered the moment he had realized what had happened. His fear had become reality. One of his children was trying to destroy another one. It was at that moment that Lorien decided to stop this madness. As Sylvan's soul cried out for his help, Lorien placed himself in front of Sylvan, to protect the weak essence left of his child. The urge within him to eliminate Sardon had been strong, but Sylvan in his immense goodness had beseeched Lorien to spare his brother's life. At that point Lorien was shocked to find that he couldn't destroy Sardon. The darkness equalled the light and they were forced to a standstill in time. Lorien still remembered the sadness inside him and while surrounding Sylvan's soul with his own energy he had been forced to watch how Sardon retreated into the darkness of the universe, leaving chaos in his tracks.

No longer looking at the pages, he closed his eyes and remembered the pain of Sylvan's soul. The soul had been too strong to die, but living like this was unbearable for Sylvan. Lorien mumbled the words he had spoken eons ago.

" Sylvan, my son.... I can't undo the damage Sardon did. He has grown stronger than I ever thought possible, but I will give you a promise. Your immortal soul will be reborn into mortal bodies, time and time again until you find someone who truly loves you. This one will love you as much as you loved creation; this love will rival your compassion that tried to lighten the darkness in Sardon's soul. When you find that love your soul will be filled by the energy coming forth from that love and you will be re-born. You won't remember who you are until that day arrives. Blissful ignorance will aid you in those millions of years ahead of you."

His voice still trembled after this long time and a tear formed in his eye as he remembered the thankfulness, which had emanated from Sylvan's soul. " I thank you for this promise father, and I hope I will find that love once so I can be reunited with you again." Lorien had reached out for Sylvan's soul and surrounded it in fatherly love as it prepared to enter a mortal body for the first time.

" You will wander for countless lifetimes. Stars will die and be born again. Suns will explode and new planets will be created. You will be tested in more ways than you can ever imagine. One day you will find the love that will make you whole again...I promise."

Closing the book, the crystals on the cover lost their brilliance and grew cold and dark. " I long for your company, my child."

Lorien had been unprepared to find this human aboard Babylon 5. The moment the First-One had stared into the human's eyes, he had seen the purity and innocence of the soul it carried within him. The human was unaware of the nature of that soul. Lorien had had to use all his strength not to reach out for Sylvan's soul. At that moment Lorien realized something else. Sardon was still hunting for his brother's soul. If Lorien had found it, Sardon could succeed as well. Controlling his trembling Lorien had studied the human. He seemed sincere and some of Sylvan's innocence and goodness had become part of this mortal. Lorien had remained out of his sight; a spectator, never revealing himself to this human. He had watched how he had been tested and had been pleased to see that one being had stood with him through his time of suffering. The question lingered in Lorien's mind; was Sardon still hunting Sylvan's soul? In that case the human was in great danger and so was the one who had begun to love him. Sardon would never allow for the prophecy to come true and would prevent their love from unfolding. Lorien's eyes searched the universe and found them on Minbar. The human and the Minbari were asleep; safe in the embrace of love and trust they had built. Lorien knew that this love had the power to break Sardon's evil and to return Sylvan to him.

Somewhere in the chaos of the universe a presence rose from slumber. He had been feeding off the fear of the races and had been content for some time, but now he sensed something. He was still connected to Lorien. A tie like theirs couldn't be severed and Sardon felt the happiness as Lorien discovered the one who had been chosen to carry his sibling's soul. A shudder ran through the universe as Sardon's mind moved quickly; touching races with fear, making planets explode and feeding off the pain of the dying beings. " Sylvan, after all this time we will meet again. You are powerless and I will enjoy squeezing the soul from your mortal body. Darkness will always be stronger than light and you will never find someone who is willing to die for you." If Sardon had had a face an ugly grin would have formed. Spreading the wings of his mind, he travelled to Minbar.

Marcus was sweating and shivering in his sleep. Dreams darker than the nightmares he used to have were tormenting him. Still half asleep, he crawled out of bed and stumbled to a corner of the room, which was bright with shining moonbeams. Huddled there, he opened his eyes and cherished the light around him. Somehow it made him feel safe.

Awakening fully at last he gazed at the bed where Neroon lay asleep. The ranger remembered the first time this particular nightmare had appeared; 3 weeks ago. He had accompanied Neroon to the cliffs to meditate. During the night, the dreams had begun. Darkness had been closing in on him and he woke from an inexplicable fear, which had formed a tight knot in his stomach. He didn't understand why he was dreaming of complete darkness. If the nightmares had been about the rapes, Marcus would have understood, but this?

It felt like a primal fear, something so deeply rooted within himself that he had cried out that first night. Neroon had been there to comfort and hold him. But the dreams were getting more 'real' in a strange way. Marcus found that he couldn't stand complete darkness any longer. That had urged Neroon to insist that they would sleep with dimmed lights from that moment on.

" Marcus? What are you doing out of bed?" Neroon had opened his eyes and saw his lover huddled on the cold floor. Concern washed through the warrior as he felt the pain inside Marcus; the fear of being devoured by darkness. Neroon used his own limited empathic abilities to soothe Marcus, creating the illusion of safety. Getting to his feet, the warrior walked to the corner and looked into Marcus' haunted eyes. "Come back to bed with me."

Marcus nodded as Neroon's comforting emotions ran through his body and mind. The ranger allowed Neroon to scoop him up and to carry him back to the bed. Nestling behind the ranger, Neroon felt how cold Marcus was. Wrapping his strong arms around the human, Neroon wondered about the new intensity the nightmares had. Some weeks ago it seemed like the ranger had begun to recover from the abuse, but these last 3 weeks had been misery.

" Neroon? Why do I have these dreams?"

" Did you ever have them before?"

Marcus considered the question and sighed. " When I was still a child I used to dream of darkness swallowing me and my family. William would wake me up and then make me laugh so I would forget the nightmare."

" William?" Neroon pulled Marcus closer. The ranger had never told him of his past. Realizing that it must have been traumatic, Neroon hadn't pushed him. Perhaps now the man in his arms would open up to him.

" My brother. He died during the Shadow attack on Arisia."

" You are from Arisia?"

" Yes, my family owned the Arisia Mining colony. " Marcus' voice was trembling and Neroon registered the regret in the ranger's voice.

" Do you blame yourself for something? The tone in your voice indicates you do and....I feel guilt in your mind."

Marcus knew he had to tell Neroon someday, but he had tried to postpone revealing his guilt. " He was a ranger and came to warn me against a Shadow attack. I didn't listen and William and the other inhabitants of Arisia paid the price. I was the sole survivor of that attack."

Neroon stroked Marcus' soft hair and remembered Delenn telling him that the ranger carried a great pain and a tremendous amount of guilt in his soul. " It wasn't your fault that the Shadows attacked Arisia. You are a warrior, Marcus. You must know that the enemy would have attacked no matter what."

" Somewhere deep down I know, Neroon, but...."

" No buts, Marcus. No one holds you responsible. Now sleep."

Relaxing in Neroon's arms, Marcus wondered about the headstrong Minbari lying behind him. " You are my salvation, Neroon. Without you..."

Neroon cut him short, not wanting to hear the pain in Marcus' voice any longer. It hurt him to see Marcus torturing himself like this. The warrior knew from previous experiences that Marcus saw him as his savior. Neroon wasn't sure why. " I love you, Marcus. Now rest."

Marcus obeyed and closed his eyes. Dozing off, Marcus felt Neroon's hand stroking his hair.

" Marcus? What are you waiting for?"

Neroon wondered why Marcus was stalling to get into the water. They had been going to the public baths every morning while no one else was there. Shuffling his feet uncomfortably, the ranger looked terrified at the water. Neroon had proposed to take a swim in the biggest pool today; this pool was connected to the lake in the valley in which Neroon's house was situated. The warrior was trying to figure out what was different this time. Then he realized that every time they had been here, Marcus had stayed in the shallow pools.

" Neroon, do I really have to?" Slightly afraid, Marcus wished Neroon would let him return to the other pools, but the warrior refused to listen. The ranger didn't want to venture into the lake; it was deep, much too deep.

Lifting his eyes, Neroon looked at him. " Marcus, don't tell me you can't swim."

Sighing, Marcus nodded. He had been too embarrassed to tell the Minbari.

" But didn't they teach you when you were training to become a ranger?" Neroon was really surprised.

" No, well, actually...I was sick that day, that week. I didn't want to attend that class. I have always disliked deep waters."

" Marcus, you should learn how to swim." Extending his hand, the warrior waited to see if Marcus would accept the invitation to join him in the water.

The ranger wavered, but then stepped into the water. " I know the moves, but the idea of not being able to put my feet down onto the ground...."

" Take my hands and try to float on your stomach."

Marcus wasn't sure he could do this, but the faith he saw in Neroon's dark eyes made him give in. He firmly gripped the Minbari's hands and tried to relax.

" Good, now move your legs. Don't worry, I will look after you."

A bit hesitant Marcus began to push himself forward.

" Now I will let go of your arms. Move them so you can push yourself forward." Neroon watched the ranger's face as Marcus began to imitate the swimming motions.

" It isn't that hard, Marcus. See? You can swim." Neroon released the grip he had on Marcus' wrist and stayed close as the ranger tentatively swam a short distance Neroon swam alongside him and wondered why Marcus had been so uncertain of himself. " What other classes were you too sick to attend?"

Feeling caught, Marcus looked into the distance and realized how far they had swum away from the house. " Can't we turn back?"

" We will. First answer my question." Neroon was not going to give in before Marcus had answered him.

" Just one more. Well, it wasn't really a class, a ceremony."

" Which was??" Why was it always this difficult for Marcus to open up to him? Neroon signalled the ranger to turn around. He caught the sigh emanating from Marcus' lips. " I am waiting."

" The Rebirth Ceremony."

Neroon wasn't really surprised; he knew it would be something like that. Typical for the ranger to avoid that one. " Why did you choose not to participate?"

" I wasn't ready."

Neroon felt it wise not to push Marcus. When they climbed out of the water, Neroon made Marcus look at him by raising the ranger's face." Are you ready now?"

Marcus answered that glance. " No."

The sun had begun to set and with every passing moment Marcus felt more cornered and uncomfortable. He knew the anxiety would only grow stronger during the night.

" Marcus? "

The ranger looked up, directly into Shahaam's eyes. Marcus had seated himself on the grass in the garden and hadn't expected any visitors. " Shahaam."

The priest raised a hand to stop Marcus from getting to his feet and seated himself next to the ranger. His old body protested fiercely. " You seem troubled. What is upsetting you so much?"

Marcus leaned back against a tree and wondered if he should try to explain his fear to the old Minbari. Words might prove inadequate, but there was another way.

< You can take the images from my mind and see for yourself. >

<Marcus, are you sure? >

< Yes, just do it. > The ranger felt how Shahaam's mind touched his and shivered as the priest moved through his memories. Then Shahaam retreated; his brow was furrowed. " The darkness scares you. Why the dark?"

" I don't know."

Shahaam wished he knew of a way to help Marcus, but he had no answers.

Opening the little black box, Neroon stared at the two beautiful objects inside. They had been handmade by the best craftsmen of the Worker Caste. Their glow had not faded at all, even after 60 cycles. They had been made at his mother's request; she had wanted to surprise his father with a gift. Taking them into his hand he felt the hardness of the metal. He wondered how he was going to explain their meaning to the ranger. They were called Jogmanar; lover's touch. These rings were made to cover the entire ring finger. The long metal case would mould itself automatically to the form of the finger and could only be removed once the owner was dead. As the body temperature dropped, the Jogmanar would expand and slip from the finger.

The tip of the Jogmanar was rather sharp and running it over a lover's flesh caused arousal. Neroon wasn't really sure Marcus would accept this gift; these pieces of jewellery were a sign of their lifelong commitment. Neroon had done some research concerning human customs; Marcus had aided his search and had answered Neroon's questions willingly, not knowing why the Minbari was interested in human rituals. This was how the warrior had learned about the tradition of exchanging rings or other jewellery to confirm a bond between lovers. Their races proved to be less different than he had thought.

" You wanted to talk to me?" Marcus stepped onto the balcony. The sunset colored the evening sky in bright golden and red colors. Neroon's silhouette was clearly outlined and saw that the warrior was holding something in his hands.

" Yes, I want to give you something."

Curious, Marcus moved closer to Neroon and managed to catch a glimpse of the opened box. " What's this?"

" The Jogmanar...A Minbari tradition. These belonged to my parents. They wore them until they died. Will you accept one as a token of my love for you?"

Slightly taken aback, Marcus looked into Neroon's eyes." This is a family heirloom?"

" Yes. I want us to carry on the tradition, but before you accept to wear this you have to know one more thing. " Neroon placed the two rings in Marcus' palm and slipped the little box back into his cloak.

" What might that be?" His curiosity woke as Neroon paused before explaining his words.

" The ring won't come off again until you die."

Shivering, Marcus touched the rings. He swallowed hard and stared at Neroon for a long time.

" I'll do it if you do it."

Neroon smiled tenderly. He opened one of the rings sideways and then placed the case around the ranger's ring finger. The ring snapped shut and Marcus felt a tingling sensation as the ring tightened. The ranger realized that Neroon was waiting for him to repeat the procedure. Marcus placed the metal ring around Neroon's finger. As it closed, Marcus saw the smile on Neroon's face. A moment later the ranger trembled as the sharp tip of Neroon's ring softly caressed his skin.

Sardon was delighted to find the soul he was looking for on Minbar. A weak human body was its host and Sardon decided to play with the human. It would be easy to destroy the human; a single thought would terminate his existence, but Sardon wanted to enjoy the human's suffering. His invisible spirit searched the house quickly and stopped as he found what he was looking for.

Two men were sleeping in the bed; one Minbari, the other human.... and inside this human was Sylvan's soul. Sardon scanned the human's mind, found his name and discovered that he was a very, very weak telepath. Certainly no match for a First One. Marcus Cole, ranger; in love with a Minbari warrior called Neroon. Sardon's essence shivered as he discovered that the two had pledged themselves to the other. This relationship was far too intimate and Sardon knew he had to separate them somehow, but he had to be subtle.

Lorien had forbidden him to hurt Sylvan's soul any farther. Sardon knew of a way, but he had to wait for the right opportunity to come along. Time was something the First One had in surplus. He moved towards the bed and remembered some tales the old and new races had spread about him.... and about the nightmares he brought with him. Sardon hovered over the human and watched Marcus stir in his sleep. The ranger rolled away from his lover and Sardon began to press down on his chest, feeding him nightmares of darkness and nothingness. It didn't take long before the human began to struggle for breath. Sardon allowed the human to wake up. He didn't want to kill him, not yet. As Sardon left the bedroom, Marcus began to thrash in the bed.

Neroon woke because of movement next to him. Immediately alert, he saw Marcus struggle for breath. It looked like the ranger was suffocating and Neroon didn't know what to do. The fear coming from Marcus was enough to paralyse the warrior momentarily. Forcing himself to shake the fear off, he supported Marcus as the ranger threatened to fall out of the bed. " Breathe, Marcus.... Calmly, in and out...Yes, that's it. In and out."

Setting a rhythm, Marcus followed Neroon's instructions. He felt Neroon's concern and tried telling the warrior that everything was going to be fine, but his breathing was still quick and shallow. Listening to the instructions, Marcus managed to calm down eventually.

" What happened, Marcus?" Intent on giving the ranger some space, Neroon moved back.

" I.... was suffocating. I couldn't breathe any more. "

" These nightmares are killing you."

Marcus couldn't deny that statement because it was true. Marcus had the irrational fear that if Neroon hadn't woken him he would have suffocated. He crawled towards the warrior and trembled as Neroon's arms enveloped him. The only moment he felt truly safe was when they were both awake, Neroon holding him. The men didn't speak after that, both trying to work out what was wrong that would cause Marcus to have these dreams.

The ranger waited until Neroon had fallen asleep again. He was unable to go back to sleep; the moment he closed his eyes Marcus was afraid of being strangled. Looking at Neroon, the ranger got out of bed and left the room. He couldn't stand this any longer. Not getting any sleep was slowly driving him insane. No longer thinking rationally, Marcus sneaked out of the house and made his way to the cliffs. There was a full moon tonight and the stars sparkled. They seemed to greet him and urge him on. Marcus shivered.

Neroon knew something was amiss when he woke and found Marcus gone. There had been a too bright a gleam in those green eyes earlier, but Neroon had thought that the ranger wouldn't do anything stupid. He centered himself and felt a pull at his mind. Marcus was heading for the cliffs and a terrible suspicion was born in the warrior. He quickly slipped into his pants and cloak and took up pursuit. He had to save Marcus from himself. Remembering that he had told the ranger once before that taking his life was no solution; Neroon realized that Marcus was more determined than ever before to stop the tormenting nightmares once and for all by taking his own life

As he stepped into the gardens, Neroon felt a storm brewing; not a minor shower, but a raging thunderstorm. He knew he had to get to Marcus before its force had built enough force to sweep Marcus off his feet and into the abyss.

Breathing heavily, Marcus couldn't avert his eyes from the raging sea below his feet. One more step and it would all be over; no more nightmares, no more darkness trying to swallow and suffocate him. The storm had reached its full potential and the ranger felt the wind tugging at his clothes and hair. He wouldn't have to jump; the gale would take him down.

" Don't do it, Marcus. We will find a way to deal with the nightmares. Don't jump; don't leave me alone."

Hearing Neroon's voice cutting through the raging wind, Marcus cast a glance at the warrior. Lightning flashed, ripping the sky apart. The roaring thunder made it almost impossible for Marcus to answer the warrior.

" I can't live with them any longer, Neroon. They are killing me inside."

The warrior moved closer and stared Marcus in the eyes. Something about the expression in those hooded orbs just didn't seem right to Neroon. It was almost as if there was a third presence close to them. He felt watched and on the edges of his empathic abilities, he felt hate; a dark hatred directed at the ranger.

Sardon was satisfied. It had been easy to scare the human. Feeding him dreams in which he jumped off the cliffs had driven Marcus to go there. Sardon added the thunderstorm for effect, knowing it would terrify the human. The suddenness of lighting and the booming sound of thunder created a scenery that would encourage self-destruction. Lurking in the shadows of the night, Sardon watched the exchange on the cliffs. Tightening the grip he had on Marcus' scared mind, he made the ranger take one more step towards the abyss and fed off Neroon's fear of losing his lover. The fear delighted Sardon.

Marcus felt a strange force compelling him to move closer to the cliff. His mind was wrapped in an unnatural darkness and it prevented him from thinking straight. Watching Neroon approach gave him hope in a strange way. The warrior wouldn't allow him to kill himself, but he wanted to die, didn't he? Why else was he here?

As Sardon's concentration weakened for one moment, Marcus wondered what the hell he was doing here on these dangerous cliffs in the middle of the night. " Neroon? What am I doing here?"

The warrior didn't expect to see the moment of clarity in Marcus' eyes. The darkness left the ranger momentarily and as Neroon reached out to pull Marcus away from the abyss a sudden gale grabbed the warrior.

Marcus shook as he saw Neroon being pulled over the edge of the cliffs. The warrior began to fall and the sea seemed to form higher waves to get to the falling Minbari even quicker. Marcus did not hesitate. Not wasting any more time, he dove into the abyss. He didn't care that he had only had one swimming lesson and that the sea was wild and battering hard against the rocks. The only thing that mattered to Marcus was that the one person he had ever truly loved was quickly disappearing into darkness. Grabbing the air around him frantically, he managed to get hold of a piece of Neroon's cloak. Marcus spun around and succeeded in wrapping his arms around the Minbari. As he looked into the warrior's face, Marcus saw that his eyes were closed. Neroon had lost consciousness during the fall. Thanking Valen, Marcus was relieved there was a full moon tonight.

The moment they hit the cold water, Marcus felt the force of the waves, pounding at them, throwing them towards the rocks. Marcus tried hard not to panic, telling himself that he needed to stay afloat. Marcus stared at Neroon, hoping to see a sign that would indicate that the warrior was regaining consciousness. ** Hold on Neroon. I can see the shore. ** The ranger avoided talking, afraid to swallow too much water. It took all his strength to pull Neroon ashore. Totally exhausted, Marcus checked Neroon's vital signs.

The warrior's pulse was much too slow and his breathing shallow. As the ranger looked at his hands, he found they were blood stained. His fingers moved to check for wounds and he found the injury. Neroon had a head wound. ** How am I going to get us back to the house? You can't do this to me, Neroon. You can't leave me! **

" Satai? Marcus?"

His head snapped back as the ranger heard Shahaam's voice. " We're here! Neroon is injured." Marcus sighed as the two figures approached him. Danzi was following in Shahaam's tracks.

" It's a good thing I take my responsibilities seriously. I followed you when you sneaked out of the house, but I was too far away to do anything." Danzi took hold of Neroon's arm and hauled the motionless body of his Satai over his shoulders.

As they made their way back to the house, Shahaam draped his own cloak around Marcus' shoulders. The ranger was soaking wet and shivered from the cold. Sneezing, the cold continued to permeate his body.

While Shahaam took care of Neroon's injuries in the laboratory, Danzi escorted Marcus back to Neroon's private quarters. The young Minbari was awe-struck after seeing Marcus diving off the cliffs to save Neroon's life. It was then that he realized that he was too far away to help the ranger. The only thing left to do was to run down the path and find the place where they would be washed ashore. Danzi had never been more relieved to see Neroon and Marcus alive. His heart had missed a beat when he had seen the blood on Neroon's face.

His attention shifted to the shivering human walking next to him. Marcus was leaning on him heavily. Shahaam's cloak was hardly enough to keep him warm and small droplets of water dripped onto the floor. Danzi knew he had to get Marcus out of those wet clothes and make sure the ranger was warm and dry. " You need to get out of those wet clothes. Otherwise you'll catch a cold or something worse."

Marcus didn't react to his words and the Minbari wondered if the ranger had heard him at all. This apathy scared Danzi and he was almost certain that Marcus had gone into shock. He was determined to take good care of the ranger, but Danzi was also worried about Neroon. His thoughts drifted off to his Satai; the head injury could be severe. Trying to subdue his worries, he concentrated on Marcus instead.

The ranger was staring into the distance; seemingly unaware of the fact that Danzi had made him sit down on the bed. Marcus did not comment on Danzi's statement, nor did the ranger object as Danzi began to peel off the sticky wet clothes from his exhausted body. He undressed the ranger in mere seconds and made Marcus lay down. Covering him with the comforter and some extra blankets, Danzi wished there was some news about Neroon's condition. He couldn't leave Marcus alone to find out; not in the state the ranger was currently in. If only Marcus would say something or acknowledge his presence...

" Everything will be fine, Marcus. Shahaam is an excellent physician. Neroon will recover. He will fight." ** Neroon has a lot to fight for indeed- you. I have to admit,

Marcus, that I never thought I would grow this fond of you. ** Danzi didn't expect Marcus to say anything, but the ranger stirred and his voice trembled as he spoke.

" I hope he pulls through...I don't think I can live without Neroon."

Leaning forward, Danzi studied Marcus' eyes. They seemed to be free from fever, but there was a terrible sadness in them. Danzi was surprised to find how much he had grown attached to the ranger. He had no brothers or sisters, but the Minbari considered Marcus family. " You are strong, Marcus, but you need to rest now. How do you feel?"

" Tired and cold to the bone." Marcus closed his eyes and remembered how cold the water had been as they had hit the surface. Panic had filled him briefly as Neroon's dead weight had almost pulled him down, but his instincts had prevailed. It still amazed him that he had succeeded in getting Neroon to the shore. He had heard of people who, through their fear of dying had found immeasurable strength inside as their minds were set on changing the outcome fate had in store for them. The fear of losing Neroon must have set some things in motion, which had enabled him to get Neroon onto the shore.

" What happened? Why did you go there in the middle of the night? And where did that storm come from that sudden?" There was a note of curiosity in Danzi's voice as he addressed the ranger.

Marcus chided himself; he should have known Danzi would keep an eye on him and follow him. " I was having a nightmare. They have become much worse these last weeks...."

" About ...?" Still a bit apprehensive about hurting Marcus' feelings, Danzi waited for the ranger to continue.

" No, not about Neroon..."Feeling his face flush, Marcus had to remind himself that he could trust Danzi. The young Minbari would keep quiet. Marcus wanted, "needed" to trust and confide in someone now Neroon was injured. His feelings had to get out somehow or they would suffocate him." I have this weird feeling that somebody is constantly watching me.... And my dreams are filled with darkness...I couldn't take it any longer and....Bugger, I don't understand this myself. I don't know what possessed me to go to the cliffs. I have no recollection of making my way up there. It's like.... waking from a dream and then discover its not a dream at all... Bloody hell, I must be losing my mind."

His body was trembling from the cold; his voice wavered and shook. Marcus pulled the comforter closer, trying to get warm. A moment later he realized that he was definitely coming down with a cold as a coughing fit made it impossible for him to talk. He hated colds, but told himself to look on the bright side of things; he wasn't going to die because of it. Being ill was a price he would gladly pay for saving Neroon's life.

Shahaam was concerned. He had run some tests on Neroon. The head injury seemed to be more serious than Shahaam had assumed. He was desperate for Neroon to wake up. Sitting down next to Neroon's bed, Shahaam wondered about all this bad luck. He had hoped Neroon and Marcus would have a chance to recover from everything they had been through recently and now this had to happen! The Universe was unfair. A moan coming from the bed caught his attention and he turned to Neroon who slowly opened his eyes. The warrior stared at the ceiling, disoriented.

" Where.... am I?"

" The laboratory. Neroon, you had an accident. Can you tell me what happened?"

" An accident... You want to know what happened? That's a question I'd like answered myself. Why am I here? ...I have this splitting headache." Neroon tried to sit up, but nausea made him lay down again. Scanning the laboratory with his eyes, he wondered how he had got here. Shahaam's presence calmed him a bit. The trusted teacher would make sure he was all right. Ever since Neroon had been his pupil, he had been fond of the Minbari priest.

" What is the last thing you remember, Neroon?"

The warrior tried hard to recall, but darkness lay over his memories. Trying to claw his way through, he realized that he remembered only bits and pieces and those fragments worried him. " I remember ...Shakiri telling me to go to Babylon 5 to make sure Delenn will not assume the position of Ranger One. So what am I doing at home??? I should be on my way to Babylon 5 to stop her." Somehow, the words didn't seem right to him. Why would Shakiri ask him such a thing? He was a warrior, not an assassin. He was also worried that Delenn would become too powerful, but kill her? Neroon was surprised to see the pained expression in Shahaam's eyes. Why did his mentor look this horrified?

" Do you know the name Marcus?"

It was fear that made Shahaam ask that question. It appeared that Neroon had no memory of the last 6 months. Praying to Valen, Shahaam hoped Neroon would recognise the name. The ranger would be devastated to lose Neroon's love after everything they had been through together. Shahaam was praying to Valen, hoping Neroon would remember his Kirmana.

" No. What kind of name is that? No Minbari name."

A heavy burden settled into Shahaam's heart. It was, as he had feared; Neroon had partial amnesia due to the head injury. Shahaam was trying to think of a way to tell Neroon about Marcus, but was dumbstruck. How could he explain everything to Neroon? He had seen the Jogmanars around their fingers. Neroon would be curious about that. Shahaam realized he had to proceed carefully if he didn't want to alienate Neroon. He had to convince Neroon of his good intentions first." It's the name of a human ranger."

" I don't know any human rangers. Why would I want to know them? Humans have no business being trained at Tuzanor. Shahaam, humans shouldn't be allowed to join the Anla'Shok."

It was far worse than Shahaam had feared. A swift pain moved through his mind as the priest realized that Marcus would be crushed hearing this horrible news. Shahaam was still recovering from his shock as Neroon managed to sit up. Determined, the warrior swung his legs to the floor.

" You can't get up. Lay down, Neroon." Shahaam saw the grave expression in Neroon's dark eyes. He couldn't let Neroon just walk out of here. What if Neroon encountered Marcus, not knowing who the ranger was?

There was a baffled look on the warrior's face as he saw the Jogmanar. " Why am I wearing this?" Why indeed? Neroon didn't remember himself pledging to a significant other. Why was he wearing this?

" I...don't know how to tell you..."

All of a sudden, Neroon felt the urge to get out of the laboratory. Obviously there was something very wrong.

" You have partial amnesia. Certain memories have disappeared from your mind. We need to talk before you leave here. There are things you need to know." Shahaam saw the grim expression and knew with a sinking feeling that Neroon wouldn't listen to him. Neroon was still under the impression that he had a mission to complete; stopping Delenn from becoming Ranger One.

" Shahaam, there are matters I have to attend to. Shakiri gave me his orders."

" Neroon, don’t..." Shahaam was cut short as Neroon raised a hand, silencing him. The warrior looked confused as he realized that he was wearing some soft robes. Where was his uniform? " I am going to my quarters now. I need to prepare my trip to Babylon 5. I can deal with the headache, Shahaam. The memories will come back in time."

Neroon was stumbling out of the room and Shahaam immediately followed him. " But you have no idea what happened." Shahaam followed Neroon; terrified of the idea what would happen if the warrior ran into Marcus.

Marcus had closed his eyes. The retreating footsteps told him that Danzi had left the room. The young warrior was going to find out if there was any news about Neroon's condition. The comforter did little to warm his ice-cold body. Teeth clattering, Marcus tried to figure out what he had been doing on the cliffs at night. He knew the nightmares had been bad, but suicide? Had he been sleep walking? Yes, that must be it. The ranger dreaded to think what would have happened if he hadn't leaped off that cliff to save Neroon's life. He would be alone once more. A life without Neroon wasn't worth living.

Sardon was pleased. It had been easy to conjure up that storm and to see to it that the Minbari was pulled down by the winds. He had to admit though that he hadn't expected Marcus to go after Neroon. For a moment Sardon had considered having them both killed in the wild sea, but he delighted in torturing Sylvan's soul and had thought up a malevolent plan. With a minimal amount of effort Sardon erased Neroon's memories of the last couple of months. Sardon knew Marcus would never be able to cope with that; to know his lover was alive, but unreachable and untouchable. That would drive the ranger insane. It would only require a confrontation between the two of them to hurt Marcus so profoundly that he would run away. If necessary, Sardon could assume any bodily form and act like Neroon to hurt Marcus even more.

Yes, Sardon was pleased indeed. Soon, very soon now, Sylvan's soul would have to be reborn again and then it would take Sylvan many more rebirths to find Neroon's reincarnated soul.

Neroon was confused. Staring at the Jogmanar, he still wondered why he was wearing it. There had to be a good reason for it. His parents' jewellery had been lying idle in his desk for many cycles; waiting for him to find the one he truly wanted to share his life with. Had he found that person and forgotten about it? And why had there been that hurt expression in his mentor's eyes as he told Shahaam that he did not know the name Marcus?

The Minbari felt strangely suspicious. Running his fingers over the side of his head, he winced as he touched the tender flesh. Why had he left the laboratory like that? It was obvious Shahaam wanted to talk to him; tell him what had happened. The priest had mentioned some kind of accident.

" Neroon, wait!!" Shahaam was closing in on him.

Neroon still felt a bit dizzy, but was determined not to show it. He did not halt in his tracks, eager to get to his quarters and start preparing for his trip to Babylon 5. " I do not have the time for this, Shahaam."

" You have to listen to me or you will hurt someone very badly."

That caught Neroon's attention. Turning around, he faced Shahaam whose face had taken on a ghastly white shade.

" Stay at the laboratory overnight. I will show you your own reports. Reading them will clarify things for you." ** And perhaps trigger your memories. Valen, I do hope you'll remember Marcus. ** The old priest went to stand in front of the door of Neroon's quarters. Knowing Marcus was inside, Shahaam was intent on stopping Neroon from entering. There was no way of telling how Neroon was going to react when he found out a human ranger was wearing the other Jogmanar. It would infuriate Neroon.

" I understand your concern, old friend, but I have to deal with Delenn first. Shakiri is my Caste Leader and I have to do his bidding." Even though Neroon realized he was missing time, he was too disorientated to figure out now what had happened. Neroon gently pushed his mentor away from the door. His hand was resting on the doorknob as Shahaam's words made him freeze.

" Shakiri is Caste leader no longer. You are. So many things have happened that you have forgotten. Please.... let me inform you."

" I have no idea what you are talking about." Neroon hated to admit it, but Shahaam's revelation had shocked him. Was it true? Had he forgotten that much? He pushed the door open and his eyes dashed through the room. ** Have I lost my mind? ** Neroon stared at the human bed in his quarters. It took him some moments to realize there was someone resting there. " What is this? What is this human contraption doing in my quarters? I want it out and replaced with a proper sleeping platform, now!"

" Neroon, calm down. Let me explain."

The warrior was agitated now that the priest was admonishing him. He was still Satai and he was in charge here. A movement coming from the bed distracted him. A human? A human was resting in his private quarters? " What deviousness is this, Shahaam? Get him out. These are my quarters!"

Shahaam knew that tone; Neroon's mind was set to do things his own way. The priest's first concern now was for Marcus who was staring at Neroon in shock.

Marcus woke from his slumber as he heard voices in the corridor. Not having being able to fall asleep for a long time, he had decided to rest a bit and merely closed his eyes. His concern for Neroon kept him awake and he wished Danzi would return with news about the warrior. The voices grew louder. Was that Neroon's voice he was hearing? Hope and relief washed through him. Perhaps the head injury hadn't been that bad after all. As the door opened, Marcus turned onto his other side so he could see who entered. If he only didn't feel this tired he could get to his feet and greet Neroon. His heart stopped beating for a second as Marcus heard the ice cold tone in Neroon's voice. Something was terribly wrong.

Marcus listened to Neroon's command to get rid of the bed and he felt like a stake was driven through his heart. Deviousness? Oh God, what was wrong? Why was Neroon accusing Shahaam of deviousness? The ranger managed to sit up, but knew he was trembling all over his body. As he made eye contact with Neroon, Marcus felt the stake penetrate his heart even deeper. There was a blank stare in the warrior's eyes; no sign of recognition. ** No!! Please God! Don't take him away from me. I went through so much misery to find this love. ** Despair was rising in his mind and Marcus carefully touched Neroon's thoughts.

A flash of anger moved through the warrior as he felt the human touch his mind. He instantly blocked the human." How do you dare to touch my mind without permission!!! Shahaam get him out!"

Inside, Marcus was crumbling. In the brief moment that he had been able to read the warrior's mind, Marcus had found that Neroon no longer knew him. The ranger wished he were dead as he heard Neroon's order to get him out. ** I knew it was too good to be true. Happiness and love.... I found bliss in his arms and now.... It’s over, no...no...**

Although Neroon had no recollection of the ranger, Sardon had not taken his emphatic powers away from him. The despair and terror emanating from the human in the bed made him momentarily sway on his feet. The emotions were genuine and Neroon wondered why the human was reacting this intensely.

Staring at Neroon, Marcus tried hard not to cry in front of this stranger. Neroon didn't love him; didn't even remember him. The ranger had no idea how he managed to compose himself. ** It's over. I lost his love. This is so unfair. ** The tears didn't leave his eyes, but his heart no longer had a reason to beat; his mind was bleeding and his soul felt like it had been torn apart. A feeling of numbness washed through him as he got to his feet, clutching the comforter around his frozen body, remembering just in time that he was naked underneath it. There was no sense in fighting fate, so he gave in with the knowledge he had lost it all. " I am leaving. Don't be angry at Shahaam." Marcus hobbled to the door. He felt weak and the comforter limited his speed and movement. His eyes were downcast, beaten, defeated. He tried not to look at Neroon as he passed by the warrior. His feelings were killing him inside and Marcus knew he had to get away from Neroon.

He couldn't bear to have the warrior this close, knowing Neroon did not care for him any longer.

Neroon felt strangely guilty as he saw the human pass him by. Why did he feel like this? He didn't hate humans, but didn't like them either. The question why this human had been resting in his quarters lingered in his mind. Neroon regretted speaking that loudly and disrespectfully. There had to be a reason that the human was here. Hospitality was very important to the Minbari and Neroon regretted that he had been so impolite. He should have listened to Shahaam and have allowed his mentor to inform him of the things he had forgotten. The priest had said that he would hurt someone deeply by not listening. Had he been referring to this human? What was a human doing at his stronghold in the first place? The feelings of despair and loneliness were becoming stronger in the human and Neroon forced himself to step away from those emotions. " Wait. I may have spoken too harshly. Who are you? Why are you here?"

Neroon's words filled Marcus with hope, but it was smashed to little pieces when Shahaam spoke. The words were obviously meant for him; to make him understand why Neroon was acting this way.

" The accident caused partial amnesia. Neroon has no recollection of the last 6 months."

** That's why...I understand now. Amnesia...A lot of people never recover from amnesia. I truly lost him. ** Marcus stumbled on, no longer paying attention to Neroon or Shahaam. His mind was paralysed. He couldn't think any longer. He wished he could stop feeling as well.

The warrior stared at Shahaam in shock. Six months? Had he forgotten what happened during the last six months? Not knowing why, Neroon suddenly felt like he had to stop the human from leaving. Shahaam obviously trusted this human and Neroon had to know who he was. He extended his arm and stopped him from leaving the room. He sensed the violent trembling in the human's body the moment his fingers touched the ice cold skin." Tell me your name."

Raising his head, Marcus locked eyes with Neroon. None of the love the warrior had once felt for him was reflected in those dark orbs. Marcus closed his eyes. He had played the game and thought he had won. Now, he understood he had been fooling himself; believing he could be happy and loved. " I am Marcus. Now let me go."

** Marcus? That's the name Shahaam mentioned. What is going on here? Is this the one Shahaam is worried I might hurt? ** Neroon wondered, allowing the human to pull free from his grip.

Marcus was choking back tears. Looking at Neroon worsened the emotional pain. He had to get away from the warrior. Pulling free, Marcus left the room, closing the door behind him. Unaware of Danzi who had been standing outside and who had heard every word, Marcus leaned against the wall. He felt like all strength had left him and wished he had died in that cell when Shakiri had him kidnapped. Losing Neroon was the worst thing that ever happened to him.

" Marcus? He'll remember, give him time." Danzi had no idea how to comfort the ranger. He was worried when he saw the empty stare in Marcus' eyes.

" I have no more reason to go on living, Danzi. I might as well be dead."

" You need to have faith, Marcus. " A short bark of laughter was his only answer. It scared the young Minbari and Danzi realized Marcus was on the edge of becoming hysterical. Giving into the despair claiming his soul, Marcus never knew Danzi caught him the moment he fainted. The young warrior gently carried the precious load to his own quarters.

PART 4

Placing Marcus' body on the tilted platform in his quarters, Danzi wondered what to do next. He had heard Neroon's harsh words and had seen the effect they had on the ranger. The glow in Marcus' eyes had died the moment Neroon had told him to leave the room. After making sure Marcus was all right, Danzi closed and locked the door behind him, just in case the ranger wanted to sneak off. It was of the utmost importance that he would talk with Shahaam. Together they had to find a way to make Neroon remember what had happened these last 6 months.

Marcus heard Danzi locking the door and sighed. He had regained consciousness while he was being carried here, but had chosen not to reveal this. Eyes closed, Marcus tried to figure out where to go from here. Should he stay and hope that one day Neroon would remember who he was? What if the warrior's memory never returned? Shivering, Marcus tried to picture Neroon close to him, no love in those eyes, only disinterest. ** I can go to Tuzanor and stay there. That way I would be close, but I wouldn't have to see him every day. ** If only he knew what to do. He wasn't even sure what he was feeling right now; despair, hope, anger or perhaps all of them blended together? He had wanted to scream at Neroon; " You can't forget me. You have to remember me.... You love me!" ** Why? ** That little word was driving him insane; why now? Why this? Would he ever get the answer to that question? ** I have to do something. I can't hide in here. Perhaps it would be best if I left for a while. **

Sardon wasn't satisfied. He might have succeeded in separating Marcus and Neroon for the moment, but he had to make sure there would be no chance of reconciliation between the two. Blocking Neroon's memory wasn't hard to do, but Sardon had sensed the questions in the Minbari's mind. Neroon's reaction as he met Marcus had been too mellow and Sardon was concerned the Minbari would be attracted once more to the ranger. He had to make sure Marcus was going to leave Neroon's stronghold. Then Sardon had to see to it that the Minbari would never find the ranger. Perhaps killing the human would be the best solution, but not here, not now. There were too many Minbari around who cared for the human. First, Sardon was going to ensure Marcus left Neroon's house as quickly as possible. In his mind, Sardon envisioned killing the human time and time again, thus condemning Sylvan's soul to wander the universe for many more centuries. Using his unholy energy, he conjured up a body resembling Neroon's. Only when he was sure the human would detect nothing wrong with it did his mind take possession of the body. It had been a while since Sardon had possessed a mortal form and he needed to get used to breathing, walking, moving his head and arms. After a while he was in control of all functions and walked to Danzi's quarters. A swift glare at the door and it was locked no longer. With the power of his mind, he pushed the door open and stepped into the room, ready for this confrontation one more time.

Marcus heard the door open. Opening his eyes, he was disconcerted to see Neroon enter the room. The warrior was wearing his uniform once more. When Marcus looked into the Minbari's eyes, he shuddered. The dark eyes were cold and Marcus felt the hate emanating from Neroon. That hate baffled him; he had not felt it earlier in Neroon's quarters. Trying to scan Neroon's mind, the ranger sensed walls and shields he had never detected before. Feeling weak and vulnerable, Marcus sat up and managed to get to his feet, still clutching the comforter. " Neroon?" Marcus had to try one more time. Perhaps he could make the feeling of hatred inside Neroon disappear. The ranger wondered what he had done that caused that hate for he felt it was directed at him personally.

" I told you to leave. I meant it. If you are still here in one hour, I'll give the order to have you removed from the compound. I don't want humans in my stronghold."

All of Marcus' hope died with those words. The hostility in Neroon's eyes burned like a flame. ** I can't give up...I have to try one more time. ** " Neroon? Don't you remember me?"

" No, why should I?"

Marcus moved closer to the warrior. Shivers ran down his spine as he stood before the Minbari. He extended his hand to touch Neroon. This was so unreal. Marcus had never thought possible it would end like this. The moment he touched Neroon's skin, the Minbari grabbed him by the throat. Marcus felt himself being lifted off his feet. Choking, he pounded Neroon's chest. His blows had no effect had at all. The Minbari held him suspended in mid-air as if he weighed nothing at all. " Let me.... go..."

" You will go and never return here. Do you understand?"

" Yes..."

Desperately fighting for air, Marcus knew he couldn't do anything. Neroon was so much stronger. He couldn't free himself of the iron grip around his throat.

Sardon grinned. The ranger was intimidated and he loved seeing the pain in the green eyes. It was easy to hurt the human's feelings; the ranger would leave within the hour. Sardon concentrated again. Marcus had to believe Neroon was threatening him.

As Neroon let go of him Marcus fell to the floor. On his knees, he looked up at the Minbari and Marcus knew there were tears in his eyes. He forced them back. He hated to admit it, but Neroon scared him. The warrior had acted this violently when he was under the influence of Shakiri's drugs. The old fear knotted his stomach tightly. The ranger was relieved to see the warrior turn and head back down the corridor.

" One hour." The words echoed briefly and then the door slammed shut.

Marcus stumbled to his feet and searched Danzi's quarters for some clothes. A spare uniform hung in the closet and Marcus didn't waste any time slipping into it. After a moment's thought he also took the gloves and slid them over his hands. The Jogmanar was a painful reminder of the love he and Neroon once shared. He had tried to remove it, but that had proved to be impossible. Marcus stroked back his hair and sat down, trying to gather his restless thoughts. He had to leave now, but his heart ached. ** Neroon, Valen help me, I still love you. It's not your fault you have amnesia. You tried to prevent me from jumping off that cliff. ** No use in postponing the inevitable. The door was no longer locked and he walked into the corridor. He was about to draw the hood over his head as he heard a troubled voice coming from behind him.

" Marcus! What do you think you're doing?"

** Danzi. I hate leaving him behind. ** Marcus turned to face the young Minbari. Danzi was obviously upset; his voice trembled and his eyes were big.

" Neroon told me to leave. I'm leaving."

" No, stay. You can't leave. You are the only one who can help Neroon. You can trigger his memories."

Looking into Danzi's eyes, Marcus knew there was another reason why the young Minbari didn't want him to leave. The concern rolled off of Danzi's mind and hit the ranger unprepared." I'll survive, Danzi. I...really would like to stay, but I don't think it would be the wise thing to do. Neroon wants me out of here. "

" Then I will go with you." Danzi was getting desperate. The ranger was an emotional mess. The hurt expression in his eyes was something the ranger couldn't hide. It was then Danzi realized that Marcus was wearing gloves; the Jogmanar no longer visible. ** Marcus has given up, Valen, NO! He could try to kill himself again. **

" No, Danzi."

Marcus took several steps towards the warrior." Neroon needs you. You will have to help him sort everything out. Your first duty is to him, not to me."

" Marcus, I promised Neroon to keep you safe."

A tenderness stole into Marcus' voice as he addressed Danzi." Danzi, I have to know someone is looking after him. Protect him." The words were hard for Marcus to speak, but it was the truth. More than anything he had to know someone was looking after Neroon. The ranger saw the hurt in Danzi's eyes. " Danzi, I.... don’t have many friends. Most of them are dead now. I have no idea where my path will take me. I need you here, alive, to keep Neroon safe. Please, don't deny me this."

Searching for an appropriate answer, Danzi shifted nervously on his feet. He didn't want the ranger to leave " Marcus, I am honored to be your friend, but I can't stand back and watch you ruin your life."

" It's my life, Danzi. I.... can do whatever I want with it." Marcus knew he shouldn't have spoken those last words. They confirmed Danzi's fear that he was thinking about committing suicide.

" I can't..." Lost for words, Danzi stared at Marcus, who smiled once more, then turned to go. The young warrior felt paralysed as Marcus walked away.

Sardon was delighted to see the human leave. Determined to torment the ranger even more, Sardon disposed of the body that had served him so well. As a spirit he would be able to follow Marcus unseen everywhere the ranger went.

With every step the ranger took, his heart seemed to bleed a little more. Marcus didn't look back as he left Neroon's compound. He had never thought he would be forced to leave like this. **Neroon, why? I can't stop thinking of you. You were the only one I have ever truly loved. You gave my life a purpose and now it has been taken away. How to cope without you? How to live with the memories of what we once had and that can never be again? You filled my heart and soul and now, there is nothing left. I wish my heart were dead. **

Neroon had been sleeping in his quarters when he felt a stabbing pain in his left side. Clutching his chest, he wondered what had caused it. It felt more like a mental pain. Cursing the fact that he was an empath, Neroon got up from the platform and centered his thoughts. Despair and a feeling of betrayal surfaced in his mind. His next move was finding the source of the disturbance. A single name appeared in his mind; Marcus. ** The human? Why would I be connected to him? These feelings are unusually strong and seem to be tied to my request for him to leave. ** Not sure what to do, Neroon stared at the Jogmanar on his finger. He felt a sudden panic, which urged him to seek out Shahaam. Walking out of his room, he realized he had been a fool not to listen to the priest when he had offered to inform him about the things he had forgotten.

Every now and then the human's name drifted back into his mind. Taunting him for his arrogance, telling him he had lost the most precious love he had ever known. ** Shahaam, I need to talk to him. He will be able to explain all this. **

He found Shahaam and Danzi in his study. The two Minbari appeared extremely concerned. The expression on their faces was grave and especially Danzi seemed shaken.

" Shahaam? Why am I sensing the human's emotions?" It was obvious that he had startled them; they didn't expect his arrival. It was Shahaam who answered him.

" That human has a name, Neroon. You are sensing Marcus' feelings because he is a telepath." Shahaam hesitated for a moment, and then continued. " He loves you, Neroon and you used to love him."

Neroon felt like he had been hit by lightning when he heard those words.

" Here, sit down. Perhaps now you are ready to learn what happened in those 6 months that you have no recollection of. Here are your own reports. Read them. "

Shahaam shoved a pile of flimsies over the desk towards Neroon. While the warrior was still wavering whether to read them or not, Shahaam beckoned Danzi to follow him into the corridor. " Danzi, no matter what Marcus told you it's your duty to protect him. I want you to follow Marcus. Stay out of his sight. As long as he's unaware of your presence he will not try to shake the tail. Report to me regularly. Now get moving. Knowing Marcus, he already has a head start."

Danzi nodded, bowed and almost ran out of the corridor. The task ahead would not be easy.

** This can't be true. Shakiri drugged me? ** With growing astonishment Neroon read his own reports. Devouring them one by one, his mind whirled as he read what he had done to this human ranger; facing him during Denn-Sha, raping him, saving him from Shakiri's mad plans. Placing the report he was reading back on the desk, he tried to remember these events, but there was nothing but blackness that answered him. ** Did I really do this? Did I foil Shakiri's plans? ** Hours passed while he continued to study his reports and with every passing minute he discovered more about himself and the ranger.

Picking up the next report he read how Marcus had been pronounced his Kirmana, about the growing bond between him and Marcus. Finally he studied the report from the Warrior Council in which Marcus was proclaimed a new member and Shakiri banished to the penal colony.

Rubbing his eyes, Neroon wondered how it was possible that he had forgotten some of the most important moments in his life. His eyes searched the desk. Underneath the pile of papers on the edge of his desk, an official looking document caught his attention. As he held it in his hands, his fingers trembled. This document had been written by himself some weeks ago. It was a copy of the document he had sent to the central library to have their liaison registered. ** Then it is true.... I choose a ranger as my Kirmana. I wonder.... ** Staring at the Jogmanar he tried to remember if he had seen its counterpart on the ranger's finger. ** The ranger...no Marcus, was clutching that comforter. I couldn't see his hands. Now what? What am I going to do? I know this is the truth, but.... I don't feel like this way any longer. **

" Are you so sure? If you don't have feelings for Marcus any longer, then why have you come here to learn the truth? "

Neroon heard Shahaam's determined voice. Shahaam stood at the doorway, waiting for a reaction. With Shahaam's permission, Neroon tentatively read the priest's emotions they told him a lot. " You like this human."

" Yes, I like Marcus very much. He is your match and you loved him more than life itself. You were willing to die for him and Marcus for you."

Shaking his head, Neroon was at a loss. He hadn't felt this lost since Branmer died. " Where is he now? Perhaps I should talk to him once more."

" He left as you told him to."

A sudden fright went through Neroon. ** Why am I this emotional about a human? This is not like me. ** " He left? Where did he go?" Neroon rose to his feet and froze. His heart stopped beating momentarily as he felt how a cold darkness tried to nestle there; trying to strengthen its hold on him. Neroon didn't know what it was, but he was determined not to allow it in. **That hate? Why do I feel like something is trying to make me give into hate and darkness? **

" Neroon? Are you all right?" Shahaam watched, concerned, as Neroon supported himself by leaning heavily on his desk. The priest carefully reached out to Neroon's mind and was repelled as he felt the darkness surrounding it. Using his telepathic ability, Shahaam managed to strengthen Neroon's defenses. The darkness grew weak, but Shahaam realized it was only a brief victory.

" I don't know...I feel this darkness, like something is trying to manipulate me, something purely evil."

" I felt it as well. "

" Assuming Marcus and I ... were.... ...lovers,"

Shahaam went to stand next to Neroon and gently lay his hand on the warrior's shoulder. " You have to go after him and find him. Without you, he lacks a reason to live. He needs your support, your strength. You are his light, his love. Don't desert him now, Neroon. Trust my words. I've never lied to you."

** That's true, he never lied to me. I would be able to spot a lie. I have to make a choice now. ** Reaching out as far as his powers were able to carry him, he tried to seize the ranger's emotions. He received no answer and the sudden loneliness clawed at him. Why did he feel lost without the human? " From what I gathered from the reports we were so close that I offered him the Jogmanar. "

" You did."

Neroon was confused. How could he have fallen in love with a human? But the document and the fact that he was wearing the Jogmanar confirmed what Shahaam had told him. He made his decision. " I will trust you to lead me, Shahaam. If you tell me to go after Marcus I will."

NO! This was not going accordingly to plan. Sardon didn't want Neroon to go after the ranger. This meant changing his plans. He would have to kill the human earlier than planned. As Sardon watched the ranger leave, he felt the closeness of another First One. Covering time and distance in mere seconds, Lorien appeared opposite of him.

" No, I won't allow you to hurt him any more. You didn't play by the rules when you erased the Minbari's memory. If you decide not abide to the rules, I will do the same." Lorien stared at Sardon. The First-One had never been more serious. Although he couldn't defeat or stop Sardon, he would make sure Marcus would have a fair chance at fighting the darkness.

" You better not meddle in this matter, Old One. This is between me and my brother." Sardon hissed the words and the venom they possessed took Lorien aback.

" No, you are both my children and I won't abandon Sylvan again. I made that mistake once. This time I will fight back and I will see to it that Neroon will fight back as well."

Sardon's essence screamed in frustration. Lorien was too powerful to take on in an open fight. " I will destroy you after I have dealt with Sylvan. Both of you will die and I will rule this universe as it was meant to be."

Lorien watched his dark child leave and knew Sardon wasn't going to give up. Lorien wondered what to do. He had spoken boldly as he faced Sardon, but had never considered how to get involved.

Part 5

It had turned dark when Marcus arrived at the ranger Training Facility at Tuzanor. He had been here a couple of times before to start preparations for his newly appointed task of helping Master Durhann. There weren't that many rangers still awake at this hour.

Marcus was thankful for that little fact for it meant that he could sneak into the building unnoticed. Master Durhann had seen to it that his quarters were close to the dojo. It was a good thing he had come here before wearing a Warrior Caste uniform. The few rangers he encountered greeted him respectfully before passing him by, but paid him no particular attention. Marcus sighed as he reached his quarters. Closing the door behind him, he stared at the spartanly furnished room. A platform, a desk and a chair. It was more than he needed.

Resting his exhausted body on the platform, he allowed the tears that had been burning in his eyes for hours to fall. He felt like an intruder now that he was here, but wasn't sure why. The rangers had given him a home after he'd lost William, now they had become his refuge. ** I am still hiding from Neroon, only the place differs. I shouldn't be here; I left my heart behind. The rangers can't fill the emptiness inside my soul. **

A knock on the door made him wonder who would want to visit him at this late hour. After he composed himself he opened the door. He was more than a little surprised to see Sech Turval standing in the door opening.

" Marcus? We thought you would join us in one week."

The ranger bowed to his former teacher. Sech Turval had once taught him a valuable lesson in modesty. Marcus had never forgotten that lesson. He knew Sech Turval had been delighted to see his student learn that lesson so quickly and willingly. Ever since Sech Turval had heard that Marcus was going to teach as well at the Centre, he had sought out his former pupil during his earlier visits.

" I decided to come here a bit earlier to prepare myself for my task." Marcus noticed the alert expression in Sech Turval's eyes and knew the Minbari saw through his lie. He had never been a good liar.

" Can I come inside?"

** Bugger, he wants to talk. Can't tell him to go away that would be rude. ** Marcus kicked himself mentally for opening the door. Stepping aside, the ranger allowed Sech Turval to enter his small quarters. " Is there anything I can do for you, Sech Turval?"

" Yes, there is."

The tone Sech Turval used made Marcus shiver. Was it possible that his former teacher knew why he had come here? ** No, news can't travel that fast. ** " I need your advice."

" My advice?" That took him by surprise. He couldn't help sighing from relief.

For an instant Marcus had been worried that the Minbari wanted to talk to him about Neroon.

" You have been on many missions and you know Zagros 7."The Minbari paused momentarily.

Marcus nodded and avoided Sech Turval's blue eyes.

" We have received information concerning Shadow activity in that area. We have to find out what their plans are. We need an experienced ranger for this mission and I was hoping you could supply me with some names of rangers who are familiar with that territory."

Marcus didn't think twice and answered Sech Turval in a deadly calm voice. " I will go myself."

" No, Marcus. You are no longer."

" Sech Turval, both of us know that I am the best man for this mission. I know Centauri space. Tell me what you want me to do."

Sech Turval shook his head. " Marcus, you are an advisor, a teacher. There are so many other rangers suited for this mission..."

" But I want this mission." No longer able to maintain the calmness of his voice, Marcus turned away from his teacher and tried to suppress the trembling of his hands.

" Marcus, I have known you for many cycles. You can confide in me if you need someone to talk to."

" Thank you, but nothing is wrong." What would it take for Sech Turval to believe everything was all right? Marcus frantically searched his mind for a solution. He wanted this mission so badly. Danzi had been right about his death wish. A suicide mission was all he needed. " I want one last mission before I 'retire' and begin my teaching job here."

" I have to discuss this with Master Durhann first." Sech Turval couldn't shake off the feeling that something was terribly wrong with Marcus.

Marcus was relieved when he got the message that the mission was his. He was told that he was going to leave first thing in the morning. A small personal flyer had been made available for him. His first stop would be the deserted ranger's base on Zagros 7 where he would find different clothing and the name of his contact on Centauri Prime.

But he had to get through the night on his own first. The Centre was quiet; everyone was asleep. Everyone except him. Marcus tossed on the platform, afraid to fall asleep. He missed Neroon's soothing presence and he wondered how the warrior was doing. Struggling, he managed to block Neroon from his mind. He didn't want to fall asleep, but his fatigue overwhelmed him.

Sardon moved quickly through the walls of Marcus' quarters and choose to manifest in solid form in the room. Sardon had taken on his father's appearance. The only difference was the evil gleam in his all black eyes.

Circling the platform, he whispered words of pain and sorrow to the sleeping ranger; telling him Neroon had found a new love, had forgotten about him. Sardon shivered from pure delight as he saw how the ranger tried to fight the nightmares. He laughed, his bitter and dark sneer cut through the room. Marcus' body was covered in a cold sweat.

" No more, Sardon. No more nightmares."

Spinning around, Sardon saw Lorien standing opposite of him. The Ancient One's hands rested on Marcus' head, caressing the dark strands. " I told you, this time I am not going to give up without a fight. You have no right to torment him like this." Lorien's hands never left Marcus' brow as the First-One faced his dark child. " You are acting like this because you are afraid."

" Afraid? Of a human carrying Sylvan's soul? He's weak." Sardon stepped away from the ranger.

" You are afraid, Sardon. Neroon's love has the power to fulfil the prophecy and thus releasing Sylvan's soul. Neroon's love is a pure one, like Marcus'. Blocking Neroon's memory won't help you; the Minbari's mind is already set on finding the ranger. You are afraid because you are losing this eternal battle." The fury inside Sardon had built to a maximum, but Lorien held his ground as Sardon released his dark power. Lorien easily deflected the attack. The First One's smile was sad as he addressed Sardon. " Be gone now. Know that I will guard him from hence on." Lorien watched Sardon depart in anger. It was obvious that Sardon wouldn't give up that easily and Lorien knew that he couldn't stay at Marcus' side all the time. Stroking the damp hair from Marcus' face, the First-One gently touched the ranger's mind. ** Innocence, hope, love, guilt, despair, they all mingle into one emotion inside you; love. You are more like Sylvan than you will ever know. Somewhere, hidden deep within your own soul, Sylvan's soul is waiting for the moment that he will be free once more. Although you have no idea of the burden you carry, you have managed to remain pure at heart. I hope you will be the chosen one who will find true love; I hope you are the one who will return Sylvan to me. I forsook him in the past; I will not forsake you now. ** The First One never expected Marcus to open his eyes, believing he had a firm hold on the sleeping human's mind.

" Who?" Marcus jumped up from the platform and backed up a few steps to put some distance between himself and this stranger. Too late did he remember that he no longer carried a pike. It was still in Neroon's quarters where Danzi had placed it on the desk while getting him out of his wet clothes. Suspicious, Marcus couldn't help stare in the eyes of the stranger. They were warm. The stranger crooked his head and appeared to be uncertain of his next actions. " Who are you? How did you get in here?" So many questions, so few answers. Marcus wasn't sure what to do. The stranger didn't seem to want to attack him, but from touching the stranger's mind, Marcus knew he was dealing with a very strong telepath.

" I am a friend. My name is Lorien. I mean you no harm, Marcus."

The ranger wanted to believe those words, but was shaken to discover that someone had been able to get that close to him in his sleep. He was slipping, losing his touch. In the old days no one would have managed to get that close to him without being noticed. It only strengthened Marcus' belief that he was over and done with his life as a ranger. No, make that his life period. Trying to assess the stranger, Marcus wondered why this being was here. " What do you want?"

Lorien locked eyes with Marcus and tried to take away the fear in those green orbs. " I am a friend. I can help you, if you let me."

" I don't need friends, don't want them. Just leave." Turning away, Marcus remembered how bad the nightmares had been. He wondered if this stranger had been a witness to them.

Lorien wanted to reach out so badly, but knew he couldn't comfort the human. Only Neroon could do that. " Neroon will come after you."

" What do you know of Neroon or me? He doesn't care for me any longer." His voice shook and he desperately tried not to think of Neroon as he closed his eyes. Who was this stranger, this Lorien, and what did he know about Neroon? Curious, Marcus risked one more look at this stranger and was stunned to see his room empty. Lorien was gone.

Marcus woke the next morning and found himself seated in the chair behind the desk. Remembering the events of the night before, he realized that he must have fallen asleep in the chair. After finding the stranger, Lorien, in his quarters Marcus had been hesitant to go back to sleep. So he sat down behind the desk to look over some reports Sech Turval had had delivered to him.

It took him some moments to realize something else. During the second half of the night his sleep had been free of nightmares! ** Impossible.... I really slept for hours without those bad dreams haunting me. I actually feel rested for the first time since weeks. ** Stretching comfortably, he tried to remember exactly what had happened last night. Lorien had seemed friendly, but Marcus didn't trust people that easily any longer. He had been through too much pain and disappointment. He did wonder however how Lorien had managed to get inside. The door to his quarters was still locked.

Rising to his feet, Marcus walked over to the closet and stared for long moments at the ranger uniform inside. Taking it into his hands, he made up his mind. It didn't take him long to change his clothing. Folding Danzi's uniform neatly he placed it on the platform. He knew Danzi would come here sooner or later to see how he was doing. By that time, Marcus would be gone. Marcus decided to keep the gloves. Although they weren't part of the standard ranger uniform, he needed something to cover the Jogmanar. Just looking at the jewel made him ache inside. Not looking back Marcus closed the door behind him. There was a mission to complete.

Neroon was frustrated. Although the flyer was moving at top speed, it would still take them more than 4 hours to get to Tuzanor. He had been forced to leave Shahaam behind. Someone had to look after the stronghold and act as his liaison to the Warrior Council. Being Caste Leader wasn't something Neroon expected to discover while he had been reading the reports. His only company was Danzi who was piloting the flyer. At his own request, Danzi had told him bits and pieces about his relationship with the ranger. Trying as hard as he could, he couldn't make the memories forcefully return. " Danzi?"

" Yes, Satai?"

" You seem very concerned for the ranger's, Marcus', well-being. Why?"

Neroon forced himself to use the human's name; he had to stop referring to Marcus as 'the human'. If Shahaam had told him the truth --and he didn't doubt his mentor's sincerity-- he had loved Marcus very much. He was determined to talk to Marcus and see what kind of person he was. If he had fallen in love with Marcus once, perhaps it would happen twice. After all, Marcus was wearing the second Jogmanar. Shahaam had confirmed that fact. ** Whether I love him or not I took a pledge to keep him safe. I may not remember pledging myself to him, but I did it. That's enough reason to go after Marcus. ** Danzi's answer disturbed his musings.

" He.... hinted at things."

" What things?"

" He told me he was going to end his life."

Thinking of the hurt look in Marcus' eyes as he told the ranger to get out of his quarters, Neroon cringed involuntarily. A memory tried to surface and Neroon reached out to grab it and drag it closer. He had a strange feeling of deja vu when he heard his own voice ringing in his ears. " I will catch you when you fall, Marcus." Neroon smashed his fist against the side of his seat. A bit startled, Danzi looked at his Satai." I think I remembered something. I am not sure though." Not wanting to talk any longer to Danzi, Neroon walked to the back of the flyer. As he sat down, he desperately tried to remember more, but no other memories were triggered. ** I have been so stupid. Shahaam warned me I was going to hurt someone if I didn't listen to him and I did hurt someone; Marcus. If only I listened! Now it might be too late. Valen, I hope Marcus won't give up. **

Another jolt cut through his memories as he saw Marcus clad in warrior uniform. Neroon heard his own voice, telling the ranger he looked attractive in black. Shocked, Neroon had to slow down his breathing. ** It is true. That's why I am so concerned about him; that's why I felt his emotions as he left. Why did he leave? I never told him to leave the stronghold...**

" Marcus! Wait!"

The ranger recognised the voice immediately and braced himself for the upcoming confrontation. He didn't want to talk to his old friend. Turning around, he forced himself to smile and extended his hand." Inesval, it's been too long." Hoping Inesval was only here to say goodbye, Marcus shook his friend's hand. Marcus saw the puzzled expression in Inesval's eyes as he noticed the gloves his friend was wearing.

Like most of the rangers Inesval had heard of the unusual partner Neroon had chosen. He had been worried for his friend, wondering if Marcus was in love with the warrior as well. When the Minbari ranger learned that Marcus was going to teach at the Centre he was determined to ask Marcus how he was doing. Studying Marcus' face, Inesval noticed the dark circles beneath his friend's eyes. Concern washed through the Minbari as he saw the nervous twitching of Marcus' hands. Sech Turval had expressed his concern for Marcus when Inesval had talked to the teacher earlier. That concern had urged Inesval to check on Marcus as quickly as possible. " Marcus. I heard you volunteered for this mission? You know the dangers involved?"

" I have been on missions more dangerous than this, trust me my old friend."

** I am sure you have, but this time you have no reason to come back to us. I can see it in your eyes, Marcus. Whatever is wrong, you've given up on yourself. ** Inesval felt Marcus' discomfort and wondered what to say.

" I have to go now, Inesval. We'll talk when I get back." Marcus almost choked on that last sentence. He had no intention of returning here.

" Marcus, be careful."

" I always am."

" No, you are not. Take good care of yourself Marcus. I would hate to lose a good friend."

Lowering his eyes, Marcus was forced to look at his gloved hands. ** It's the best thing to do for everyone involved. Neroon will be free when I am gone and the rangers...I don't belong here any more. ** Not longer able to keep up the pretence, Marcus disappeared into his flyer.

Inesval's heart was heavy as he watched his friend leave.

Neroon strode over to the main building of the Training Centre and was surprised to see Sech Tuval and Master Durhann standing there. The strangest expression lay on their faces; like they almost expected him to show up. Feeling more than just a bit apprehensive, Neroon walked up to them, bowed and was about to speak when Sech Turval addressed him.

" Satai, I must admit I am glad you came. Something is wrong with Marcus."

Slightly taken aback by the ranger's frankness, Neroon needed a moment to compose himself. He needed to find the right words to answer Sech Turval. " I had an accident which caused partial amnesia. I have no recollection of the last months and reacted a bit too harshly when I found out about Marcus. He left the stronghold and now I am trying to find him. "

" You just missed him, Neroon." Master Durhann studied his former pupil. Neroon seemed disturbed and restless. This surprised Durhann; being a warrior Neroon had spent a lifetime learning how to hide his emotions and now they were plainly written across his face. Neroon's guard was down for some reason.

" I missed him?" Neroon failed to keep the concern out of his voice. Danzi stepped up to him and Neroon sensed Danzi's fear that Marcus might commit suicide. Being an empath was a curse as well as a blessing.

" He volunteered for a rather dangerous mission. I wondered about that. He requested this teaching position himself because he wanted to stay on Minbar. "

** He volunteered for a dangerous mission? Is Danzi right? Does Marcus want to take his own life? I have to prevent that. ** " I need to know where I can find him." His tone was calm and it told the two other Minbari that he wasn't going to accept no for an answer.

Master Durhann and Sech Tuval exchanged a look and seemed to agree. It was Sech Tuval who spoke in the end. " You can find him on Zagros 7. He needs to land there to get the rest of the necessary information to complete this mission. He has a lead on you.... I guess about two hours. You better leave now if you want him to live."

There was a determined expression in Neroon's dark eyes as he thanked the two Minbari for that bit of precious information. " Sech Tuval is right. We can't afford to waste any more time, Danzi."

Master Durhann and Sech Tuval watched them leave. " I hope he will be able to get to Marcus in time."

" I saw the look in Marcus' eyes as he left, Master Durhann. Marcus looked that way when he first came here after William's death. I fear for his life."

" So do I, my friend.'

PART 6

Marcus was approaching Zagros 7 as planned. It seemed a lifetime ago that he had left the small Drazi colony. The mines that had once kept the rangers prisoner were gone now. They had disposed of them and the planet had been deserted ever since. A training camp out here had proven too dangerous and the camp had been relocated. No one would be there to greet him on his arrival and Marcus didn't mind one bit. He wanted to be alone. Once again, his thoughts drifted back to Neroon. Was the warrior all right? Marcus hoped Danzi was looking after his Satai. Neroon, the name evoked memories he didn't want to recall right now. He was fighting his memories and almost didn't notice the alarms going off, indicating an anomaly near by. Shaking his head he forced himself to pay attention. He might be on a suicide mission, but he wanted to complete that mission first. " Bloody hell, what's that?"

Looking at the small screen he saw a gigantic black cloud. He shivered. The cloud moved quickly and it was heading his way. The ranger realized he had to do something and tried to adjust his course so he wouldn't be on a collision course any longer. Shocked, he discovered that the black cloud changed direction as well. Every time he tried to outmanoeuvre the strange cloud, it mimicked his actions and managed to get even closer. It didn't take him long to realize that he was up against something he couldn't outsmart. His hands moved quickly over the control panel, waiting for the computer to identify this thing. The screen blinked once and he was startled when the computer had no information on the anomaly. " Great, why do these things always happen to me? Why couldn't it be a Shadow ship? At least then I would know what I was dealing with...No, I am onboard and the strangest things begin to happen. Can't outrun the bloody thing. "

The cloud was gaining speed and his calculations told him that his ship would make contact with it in one minute. " Well, here goes nothing. One way or another, looks like I am going to find out what this thing is." Finding out wasn't something the ranger was looking forward to. As the cloud moved in on him, he cringed as a jolt of pain racked his mind. It felt like the darkness of his dreams was trying to get into his mind while he was still awake. Clutching his forehead, he saw the black cloud catch up with his flyer. All control panels shut down. As his headache grew less, the ranger realized that he no longer had any control over his flyer. He was going to crash.

Neroon was pacing nervously, cursing himself for going after Marcus in this small flyer. He should have opted for the Naffia. The War Cruiser was a lot faster. He wasn't sure that he would be able to get to Marcus in time. Although no more memories had surfaced, he felt the persistent urge to know the ranger safe. The Jogmanar on his finger was a constant reminder of how much he must have once loved Marcus. Slowly, anger began to build in his mind; that anger was directed at himself. How could he forget the man he loved? Why were all other memories still there? Why only the last 6 months? Ever since his discovery of Shakiri's manipulation and deviousness, Neroon had begun to feel suspicious of anything that happened to him. Even though he knew Shakiri was not involved this time, he was determined to be very careful. The warrior had even checked the whereabouts of his former Caste Leader. Shakiri was still on the penal colony.

" Satai?"

Composing himself, Neroon looked at Danzi. The young warrior had proven to be a good friend. Even now, Danzi refused to leave his Satai.

" What will you do once we find Marcus? I don't think he can cope with another rejection.... and considering the fact that you still have no recollection of your time together..."

" I won't reject him, Danzi. I might not remember the love we once shared, but I do know it existed. Perhaps I can try to rebuild that love. I am not going to give up that easily. I must have been certain of the fact that he was the one I wanted to share my life with, otherwise I would never have given him the Jogmanar. I have to trust my judgement."

The answer pleased Danzi. He was sure that his Satai would fall in love for a second time with the ranger. Somewhere deep down in Neroon's mind a core of that love must still exist. Neroon and Marcus had been more than lovers; they had shared a special connection, which would surface again given time.

" How much longer before we reach Zagros 7?"

" One hour, Satai. I am still trying to contact Marcus' flyer, but there is no response. "

" I don't like that." Neroon couldn't hide his concern. Danzi had learned to read Neroon like a book in the time he had served his Satai. Knowing Neroon was worried made Danzi feel apprehensive.

The flyer rocked uncontrollably back and forth in the cloud. Marcus watched how one system after another short-circuited and a moment later the lights went down. Life support was still functioning, but the ranger knew that it would also go down in minutes. Sparks of electricity burned the air and Marcus had to duck or he would have been hit by a cable moving wildly through the front of his flyer. He had no idea how close or how far away Zagros 7 was and realized he would never be able to land this flyer. ** Why am I afraid? I want to die; now I don't have to do a thing. Something else is doing it for me.... and all I can think about is that I don't want to die. I don't want to leave Neroon behind. I want to be with him. ** The ranger bowed his head in defeat. ** Perhaps in another lifetime, assuming death isn't the end. I failed, I lost him; lost his love. **

A dark, booming laughter pierced his mind. Looking around, he saw no one. Was fate taunting him? He bounced in his seat as the flyer began to spin round. The ranger realized that the flyer was breaking apart. The hull was literally being torn apart by something. He closed his eyes and visualized Neroon's face in his mind. ** I am so sorry it had to end like this, Neroon. I still love you...Goodbye. ** As the flyer entered Zagros 7's atmosphere the plane quickly lost its altitude. The straps of his seat broke and he was catapulted out of the chair. He hit the wall with a loud thud and turned unconscious the moment he was thrown to the floor. He never knew the flyer hit something solid.

He was laughing when he heard the sound of breaking bones. Sardon observed the crash from a distance. The black cloud he had sent to block Marcus' view had been successful. The flyer had crashed on Zagros 7. Wanting to gloat, Sardon approached the site. The flyer was burning, but had not yet exploded. Good, he wanted the ranger alive and at his mercy.

Nausea was fighting its way through to the surface. Marcus opened his eyes and knew he had to throw up. Turning to his side, he emptied his stomach. Slowly, the sick feeling in his stomach lessened and he managed to look around. He found himself in an absolute mess. The flyer was partly burning. The only good thing was that he had been propelled to the other side, far away from the fire. The ranger knew he had to get as far away as possible from the wreck; it was going to explode...

Looking down at himself he realized that he was lying on what was the ceiling of his flyer. It had been turned upside down during the crash. A stabbing pain rushed through his body as he tried to move. The source of that pain appeared to be his leg. Wiping some blood from his brow, he felt a small wound on his forehead.

Unable to walk, he heaved himself towards the no longer existing doors, biting his lip as pain shot up from his leg. It was definitely broken. The ranger managed to pull himself towards the now gaping opening in the side of the flyer and looked down. The ground was several feet below him. An explosion in the back of the flyer rocked the ship and Marcus couldn't wait any longer. Having no idea where the courage and strength inside him was coming from, he pushed himself out of the flyer and braced himself for the impact the moment he was going to hit the ground.

As his body made contact with the ground, an unbearable pain moved through him. Tears of pain made their way over his face, as his left leg seemed to explode. The ranger managed to get a grip on himself and began to pull his exhausted body away from the flyer. Flames were getting closer to the engines and Marcus knew he was still too close to the plane. An inexplicable strength washed through him as he managed to get enough distance between himself and the burning wreck. Panting heavily, he looked down a small hill. He had to get down there before the flyer exploded. Clenching his teeth, he pushed his body from the ground. A scream of agony left his lips as he rolled downhill. The exploding flyer caused a pressure wave and rocks and debris were propelled into the air.

One of those rocks impacted only feet away from Marcus who was on the edge of losing consciousness once more. ** I survived....Why? Why am I always the one to survive a crash? I should have died. I still can't comprehend where that inner strength came from. I can hardly move. My head hurts and my leg is killing me. Why did I climb out of that bloody plane? Zagros 7 is deserted. I can't get any help. **

He tried to slow down his breathing; not sure whether to be glad surviving the crash. Heaving himself from the ground once more, his arms gave out on him. He rested his back against a tree and felt along the bones in his leg. Even touching it was painful. A sound coming from behind him demanded his attention. There were no living beings on Zagros 7 so what had caused that sound? A being he had seen once before emerged from behind the rocks. Marcus' foggy mind told him that it was impossible to meet Lorien here.

" Lorien? What are you doing here?"
On purpose, Sardon had chosen Lorien's form to show himself in. The Dark One was looking forward to revealing himself to the human at his feet. The pain emanating from the human was delicious, as Sardon tasted it. The pain made his energy flame up brightly for a moment and it strengthened the First One. To know that this was the one who was carrying Sylvan's soul inside him and to have him at his mercy.... Sardon grinned maliciously. " I am not Lorien. I am his child. A First One." Sardon's voice was cold; filled with evil.

Marcus shivered, trying to process this new information. ** A First One? I heard about these mystical creatures and Lorien is one as well? ** " Who are you?" The ranger tried to crawl back. This being intimidated him.

" You don't know me... I am going to kill you very slowly. I want to see pain and despair in your eyes when you die."

" Why? Why do you want to kill me?"

Taking a step closer to the ranger, Sardon briefly considered telling the human why he had to die. ** No, I am not going to tell you. I can't take the risk of Sylvan freeing himself from your soul. I still sense the love inside you. It's a good thing I erased your lover's memories. ** " You don't need to know why you have to die. " Leaning forward, Sardon gripped the ranger's tunic and lifted him from the ground like he weighed nothing. Marcus struggled, trying to break free. His feet no longer touched the ground and Sardon lifted him even higher, gripping the ranger's throat tightly. The action triggered a memory Marcus had been trying to bury. He didn't know where the sudden revelation came from, but as he stared into those hate-filled eyes, he knew. " It wasn't Neroon who told me to leave his stronghold. I recognize the hatred in you. It was you.... who threatened me. You took Neroon's form, didn't you?" His own boldness baffled the ranger. This being was definitely much stronger than he was, but for some reason Marcus didn't feel afraid any longer. Staring into the eyes of his adversary, he realized that he would be dead soon.

" Yes, I did." Sardon's shape began to fade away, only to solidify a moment later. Marcus was dizzy because of lack of oxygen. The hold Sardon had on him made it hard for the ranger to breathe properly, but nonetheless Marcus saw how Sardon changed his appearance. Neroon was staring back at him. This was how Sardon had tricked him into leaving Minbar. Even though Marcus knew that it wasn't Neroon standing in front of him, he couldn't force back a tear. Sardon had done a great job in taking on Neroon's appearance. ** If Sardon would close his eyes, it would be Neroon standing there. Neroon...I don't know why we aren't allowed to be together, but I wish I could say goodbye to you in person before I have to die. **" Who... are ...you?" Marcus was no longer able to breathe properly.

Sardon realized he was strangling the ranger. He didn't want him to die just yet. Releasing the hold he had on Marcus, he threw him to the ground and relished hearing the moan of pain that left the ranger's lips. " I am Sardon, the last thing you will see before you die."

Barely registering the words, Marcus struggled to get more oxygen into his lungs.

** Sardon, never heard that name. Why does he hate me? ** Although he didn't know the name, it sent shivers down his spine. During training the teachers had told them bits and pieces about the First Ones; powerful beings that could destroy a planet on a mere whim. Why was this First One so obsessed with him? What threat could a human ranger pose to Sardon?
Lorien was outraged. Sardon had interfered once more. The First One had been too late to prevent the crash, but was determined to thwart Sardon's plans. Realizing Sardon's power, Lorien knew he couldn't get close to Marcus. The Dark One would never allow that. But there was someone else he could help. He had been so focused on the ranger that he had forgotten about the Minbari warrior. Perhaps he could undo Sardon's memory block. In the end it was Neroon's love, which would be judged. He had to concentrate on the Minbari if he wanted Marcus to survive and Sylvan to be delivered from his curse.

Danzi put in the co-ordinates that would take them to the deserted ranger base on Zagros 7. The young warrior hoped they would be in time to prevent Marcus from doing something stupid. The sensors suddenly went berserk.

Neroon was immediately awake after having fallen asleep earlier. " What is it, Danzi?"

" A power source; origin unknown is moving quickly in our direction."

" Are we in its path?"

Danzi was about to answer that question when a ball of light appeared in the back of the flyer. Alert, Neroon slid his pike into his hand. "What is that?"

" I have no idea, Satai."

Both Minbari were stunned to see the light extinguish. A form solidified and a seemingly old being appeared. It was neither human nor Minbari. Neroon had never before seen someone like this. The stranger's eyes captivated him for a moment and he felt warmth and goodness emanating from this being. But the empath felt something else as well; anger, but not directed at him or Danzi. " Who are you and what do you want?" Being a warrior the direct approach worked best for him in these kind of circumstances.

" My name is Lorien and I am a First One. I am here to help you find Marcus Cole."

That wasn't something Neroon expected to hear. A First One? He better be careful now and handle this situation correctly. Why was a First One aboard his flyer and why would he offer him help to find the ranger?

" I know you have many questions, but we are running out of time. I can't interfere directly, but there are two things I can do to help you. You lost part of your memory, didn't you?"

Neroon nodded. For some reason he was inclined to trust this being. His empathic powers told him that Lorien was no threat. " Yes, that is correct." Not wanting to give any more information to the First One, Neroon waited for his reaction.

Lorien took some steps closer to the Minbari warrior, but was stopped by Danzi. The young warrior didn't have Neroon's emphatic ability and reacted to a possible threat to his Satai.

" No, Danzi. He means us no harm. You can trust him."

Still not sure of Lorien's intentions Danzi stepped back, allowing the First One to stand in front of the two warriors.

Lorien smiled. He should have confided in Neroon earlier. The warrior was wise for a mortal. " I can restore your memory to you, if you let me."

This offer raised some questions in Neroon's mind. " How did I lose those memories in the first place? I don't think it was related to that accident on the cliffs. I need to know what is going on here. Why is a First One this concerned for a human?"

" And a Minbari. I am concerned for both of you. In time you will learn the truth, but first we need to restore your memory. Will you let me?"

There was no doubt in Neroon's mind when he answered the First One. " Yes, I want my memory back. "

" Good, then sit down."

Neroon complied and felt Danzi's concern as he sat down. He never realized that Danzi had grown this close to him and Marcus. Lorien placed his hand on Neroon's forehead and smiled kindly. Not knowing what to expect, Neroon braced himself for any possible pain. But there was no pain. As he closed his eyes, his mind revealed the things Sardon had tried to keep hidden from him. Neroon's mind moved through the lost memories and he felt all the pain Marcus went through as he recovered from the abuse. But there was more. Their love grew and Neroon saw Marcus challenge Shakiri to Denn'Sha. Valen, he had only been just in time to prevent that deadly blow. ** The nightmares...Marcus was so afraid of the dark. ** Neroon remembered the horror-stricken face of the ranger as he comforted his lover.

< There is a reason why he is afraid of the dark. You will uncover the truth very soon. > Lorien told him.

Lorien's thoughts echoed in his mind and Neroon opened his eyes. His memory was complete again. He remembered pledging himself to the ranger and giving Marcus the Jogmanar. " I remember now. I remember everything, but still I have no answers."

A sad pain coursed through Neroon. His soul cried out for Marcus. To be without the ranger made him ache inside. ** How strange, even during the time my memories were gone I clung to him. The thought of losing him, is killing me inside. **

" Take this. All answers can be found in this book. Read it and everything will become clear." Lorien handed him the book.

Hesitantly, Neroon accepted the book and opened it.

Addressing Danzi, Lorien told him to lay in a different course.

" Why?"

Lorien took Danzi aside. He didn't want to disturb Neroon who was absorbed in reading the first pages of the book. " Because Marcus' flyer crashed on the other side of the planet. You would have left Zagros 7 without knowing he needs help."

" Is he injured?" Danzi didn't waste time and fed the new co-ordinates to the computer.

" Yes. But he's still alive. We need to get to him as quickly as possible."

Something bothered Danzi and he spoke his mind as he looked at the First One.

" If you are so powerful --a First One-- why don't you help Marcus yourself?"

" I can't, my young friend. There is a dark force holding him prisoner and only Neroon can defeat that darkness."

PART 7

Neroon was about to close the book, when he stared at Lorien. The Minbari never knew that much about the First Ones. Everything he had read had been new to him. He wondered what Marcus' role was in all of this.

" There is more. A page has been added to the book while you were reading."

Neroon watched closely how words appeared on the page that had been blank only moments before. He found himself reading the words out loud. "After innumerable reincarnations, Sylvan was once more searching for a soul that was willing to carry him through another lifetime, searching for the love Lorien had promised his son so long ago. Sylvan had no memory of Lorien's promise; he didn't know what he was searching for. He only knew that he had to find a host. It was impossible for him to inhabit a body without the original soul. Remembering his first reincarnation he thought of the stillborn child for which no soul had been found in time. He had tried to safe the infant, but his soul was powerless and as the child died in his mother's arm, Sylvan had been forced back to limbo to wait for another opportunity to be reborn. Normally Sylvan had to convince one of the souls waiting to be reborn to carry his essence with it. The souls were reluctant to give in, somehow feeling the strangeness of his essence that didn't belong here. This time was different though. As Sylvan desperately tried to remember why he had to be reborn time after time again, a single soul approached him. It was an old soul, which had been reincarnated almost as many times as he had. There was wisdom to this soul Sylvan never expected to encounter. The light this soul carried inside resembled his own. The soul had heard of Sylvan's efforts to find a host for his next rebirth and had taken pity on Sylvan. Feeling the urge to help the strange essence, the soul offered Sylvan the chance to be reborn with him. Sylvan warned the benign soul that he didn't know why he needed a carrier. There might be danger ahead of them; pain. The soul hadn't wavered, and remained firm in his decision. In the end Sylvan thankfully accepted the offer. The soul allowed Sylvan to nestle himself within its core and together they left limbo to be reborn.

That night, a human with two souls was born. Life was going to be hard on this human; merciless and painful. At a young age he lost his parents and was forced into taking over the family business. Years later he lost his only brother in a Shadow attack. That night shaped him into the man he would become; all his dreams were devastated. Hope was replaced with guilt, but his trials weren't over yet. He joined the rangers to find a new purpose in life. During his stay on Babylon 5 he was prepared to give his life for Ranger One as he faced a Minbari warrior in the maintenance tunnels at his friend's request. That day the human met his destiny as he fought the warrior. Fate decided it was not yet time for him to die. Neroon spared his life."

The warrior looked up from the book as he read his own name. He wasn't sure of his feelings as he observed the kind expression in Lorien's eyes. This book had given him some answers to the puzzle he had to solve. " Marcus carries Sylvan's soul?"

The First One didn't avoid Neroon's stare and nodded. " I told you there was a reason why Marcus is afraid of the dark. Sardon knows Marcus is Sylvan's carrier and will do anything to prevent Sylvan from being delivered from his imprisonment. For you have to know that Sylvan would be strong enough to defeat his brother the moment his essence is once more filled with energy. Sardon is afraid."

Net yet completely understanding the rules of this universal tragedy, the warrior studied Lorien closely. " And how do I fit into everything?"

Lorien had to admire Neroon's calmness. Perhaps this Minbari was the one who had the power free Sylvan's spirit. " Sylvan's soul will only be delivered from this perpetual circle of reincarnation if someone loves Marcus that much that he would be willing to die for the ranger. Sacrificing your life for Marcus' would be the ultimate proof that you truly love him. In order to safe both Marcus and Sylvan you have to make that sacrifice."

Neroon grew melancholy hearing this ultimate truth. To be honest, he expected hearing something like this. His answer came from the heart. " A warrior doesn't fear death as we are already dead. Only those of the living can fear. I am not afraid to die, Lorien. I'll not hesitate to do whatever necessary to make certain Sardon won't hurt Marcus, and Sylvan more than he already has." He added that last bit of his sentence after a moment of thought. He wondered about the human. " Marcus' soul willingly offered Sylvan to be his host?"

" Yes. A noble soul..." Lorien lowered his head, looking at the floor. Thinking of the Minbari, he realized that they were the same. Neroon loved Marcus to death; the First One himself loved Sylvan, his beloved child. Lorien was willing to fight Sardon to interfere in this heartless game.

It was Danzi's voice that brought them back to reality. As he addressed his Satai, Danzi's voice quavered. Having heard every word of their exchange, the young Minbari could only think of one thing; his Satai had to die in order for Marcus and Sylvan to live.

" We are approaching the co-ordinates Lorien gave me. We should have a visual of the crash site...now."

The screen flashed bright and Neroon stared in horror at the debris. This had once been Marcus' flyer.

An all-consuming darkness enveloped the body of the unconscious ranger. Sardon had made sure that there was no possibility of escape for the human.

As Marcus regained consciousness, he kept his eyes closed. He had to concentrate, to remember what had happened. Sardon had released him from the chokehold and moments later he had passed out. Trying to shift his position a little, Marcus' eyes flashed open as a sharp pain washed through his body. His leg hurt a lot...Looking around he wondered if he was in hell. The darkness around him was absolute. There wasn't a single source of light. He shivered, feeling cold and abandoned.

Running his hands over the surface he was lying on, he felt the sharp edges of the rocks underneath him. He was surprised to feel a gentle breeze tangle his hair. Why was it this cold here? Rubbing his body with his hands, he tried to get a little warmer. The darkness was making him paranoid and he expected to be faced with an attacker or Sardon any moment now. He remembered the time he had been blind and fought the terror that was spreading throughout his half frozen body. ** Blind no longer I am still surrounded by darkness. **

All of a sudden something Neroon had told him a long time ago surfaced in his mind. During the time that Neroon had been stalking him, the Minbari had made a cryptic remark he hadn't understood himself. Sinclair had told him that he had to protect someone from the darkness. Neroon later figured Sinclair had meant the ranger. Marcus wondered if Sinclair had known somehow what was going to happen in the future. ** Neroon, I need you so badly. I can't fight this darkness; I am powerless. **

" You will wish you had died during that crash before I am through with you, human."

The voice seemed to come from the darkness itself and Marcus frantically tried to pin down the source. He knew it was Sardon; he felt the hatred grow stronger." Why do you hate me this much? I can't remember meeting you before or wronging you somehow."

This was the one question Marcus really wanted answered. If he had to die, he wanted to know why. The ranger trembled as Sardon became visible, using Lorien's appearance. Sardon came closer and sat on his heel in front of him. Marcus had never before seen such anger and hate in someone's eyes. He knew that Sardon could kill him with a single burst of his will.

" Why? Because I hate everything you represent, human. The innocence that still clings to you, even now in your darkest hour, repels me. That innocence, the goodness and love inside you.... I have to smother them, eradicate all the light inside you."

" You don't make any sense." Sardon grinned; a foul smile that made Marcus cringe.

" You have no idea what is hiding inside you and I am not going to tell you."

Resigned, Marcus tried to avert his eyes, but the hate in Sardon's eyes flashed through the ranger before he realized it. The pain was dark and Marcus had no other choice than to wait until it had passed through him.

" You'll die soon, human. Your body is already weak and hurting. Without food or water your body will shut down. You're already thirsty, aren't you?"

Marcus refrained from answering. He knew Sardon was only playing with him. Yes, he was thirsty and hungry, but he wasn't going to give Sardon the pleasure to hear him confirm it. Perhaps death wouldn't be that bad. Knowing Neroon had forgotten him left the ranger with no reason to fight for his life.

" This will be your grave and the moment you die...I will be there. I want to see the souls fleeing your body only to discover that I am here, waiting for them."

There was something that didn't make sense to the ranger hearing those words, but he was too tired and the pain was too aggravating to notice that Sardon had spoken about souls, not soul. The ranger saw Sardon's form flicker, than fade away. He was alone again. ** Alone, will I die alone? I faced death before, but that was different. Dying here in the darkness, having lost the love of my life.... I wonder if there is life after death...Don't know if I want to live on. Wait, Sardon mentioned something about souls.... Is he after my soul? **

> > > > > > >

Deep inside the human's soul something stirred from sleep. An essence began to awake; an essence that didn't know who he was or why he was here. The only thing he knew was that he felt pain. Not his own pain, but the agony of someone connected to him. Had this other one woken him from his slumber? But he felt weak and realized he didn't have the power yet to communicate with this other one.

> > > > > > >

Searching the burnt out flyer, Neroon was relieved to find no corpse. The warrior had to admit that he wouldn't have known what to do had he found Marcus' dead body. The First One had told him the truth; Marcus was still alive. " Lorien? You told us that Marcus was injured during the crash. Do you know where to find him?"

Slowly turning around, Lorien looked into Neroon's eyes. There was pain written all over the warrior's face; a pain brought forth by fear for Marcus' life." Sardon holds him prisoner. I don't know where. It could be somewhere on this planet, it could be in a dimension which he rules."

That wasn't the answer Neroon wanted to hear. " How can I find him?"

Crooking his head, Lorien pondered the question for some moments. " Only you can find him. The connection between the two of you is very strong. Remember how you found him when Shakiri had him kidnapped?"

A surprised expression appeared on Neroon's face.

" Yes, Neroon. I know everything."

The warrior knew what to do now. He had found Marcus before, he could do it again. The ranger's life depended on his actions. Closing his eyes, the Minbari centered himself and reached out for Marcus. Neroon didn't see how the First One smiled tenderly; neither did he notice how the First One strengthened his empathic powers. Neroon only knew the silence in his mind until he felt a pull that almost knocked him of his feet.

He recognized Marcus' mind. The ranger appeared to be asleep; a hunch of pain floated through Neroon as he realized that Marcus was hurt. Not resisting the pull, his body moved forward. ** I am coming to get you out of there, Marcus. Don't give up, fight Sardon! ** The Minbari didn't know if Marcus could hear his thoughts and stepped into a darkness that covered him like a blanket.

Lorien watched Neroon closely as the warrior began to fade away. Danzi was alarmed and tried to get to Neroon, but Lorien stopped him." This is the only way he can get to Marcus. Sardon's power is strong, but so is mine. I will look after him. You can't come with us, child. Stay here, wait and have faith."

The moment he spoke that last word, Lorien's shape faded as well. Danzi looked around; he was alone.

Neroon opened his eyes and only saw darkness. A moment later, Lorien appeared at his side. " What happened?"

" You managed to break through Sardon's defence shield. You are inside his world. I know this must sound unbelievable to you, but you're the first person to ever do that. I can't help you from here on. Sardon will test your love. Remember, it is all tricky. He is the master of deception. Stand firm and don't allow him to break you. Should you fail the test, Marcus will die, as will you. You have to be victorious, Neroon."

" I understand. "

" Now step into the darkness and don't falter, Neroon." Bracing himself, the Minbari took that step forward.

Marcus had been asleep for some time. The strangest dreams had filled his sleep. He had dreamt of light and darkness; no faces, no voices, just shades of colors. Thankfully the nightmares stayed away. He wondered about that though. He had expected Sardon to send him nightmares to torment him in his sleep. His leg ached and his throat felt raspy. Was Sardon planning on starving him to death? Barely able to lift his arm from exhaustion, he managed to move his fractured leg just a little bit. He gritted his teeth when he felt the pain, but he was laying on a particularly sharp rock and after having moved a little, the pain finally lessened.

The essence hiding in his soul was gaining strength. Looking through the eyes of his host he only saw darkness. Looking down the body he was connected to, he managed to make out the blood stained clothing. ** Who am I? **

The ranger's head snapped back when he heard the unknown voice in his head. Had he gone insane at last? ** Am I schizophrenic? Hearing voices is definitely a bad omen. ** Marcus never expected to get an answer.

< No, you're not insane. I am here as well. As far as I can tell I am inside your mind somehow. >

" Great, now I am having conversations with myself. " Speaking the words out loud comforted the ranger. It broke the deadly silence.

<Who are you? >The essence knew it could take the answer from his host's mind, but didn't want to intrude.

< I am Marcus. >

< Marcus. >

Hearing the other one repeat his name made Marcus shiver. There was a tenderness attached to that thought which seemed to wrap itself around his pain in an effort to take it away.

<Who are you? > Marcus rested his back against a rock. He was so damned tired and thirsty.

<I don't know. I wish I knew though. You are in pain. >

< Yes, my leg is broken. Can you feel my pain? >The air around him cooled down even farther and the ranger wrapped his arms around his body, trying to stay warm.

< Not really feel it; I can sense it. Can I help you somehow? > The essence revolted against the idea that the human was in pain, but didn't know how to comfort Marcus

<Keep talking to me. I hate silence and it's so dark in here. ...I am scared. > It was the truth. Marcus knew there was no chance of getting out of here alive. The voice in his mind comforted him and the ranger didn't want to be thrown back into absolute silence.

<Why don't you tell me how you got here? >

Marcus nodded his head; not realizing the presence couldn't see it. Where to start?

Strange, but somehow familiar noises made Neroon open his eyes. He thought he had lost all sense of reality as he watched the Minbari warriors move their fingers over the crystals. Looking around, Neroon realized he was standing in the command centre of a Minbari War Cruiser. This was the very heart of the battle ship. Casting a glance at the command chair he found it empty. ** How did I get here? More importantly, why am I here and where is Marcus? **

Lorien had mentioned some sort of test he had to pass. Was this it? Something about the command centre reminded him of the time he had spent aboard the Ingata. Taking a step closer to the control panels, he saw his reflection on a screen. ** Impossible! ** The face that stared back at him was his, but looked so much younger. Running his fingers over his face he realized that the image told him the truth. His body felt much more vigorous. What was going here? Why did he look so young?

" Neroon, I was looking for you. We need to talk."

Spinning around, Neroon recognised the voice. The gentle ring to it brought back memories he still cherished inside. As he looked into the Minbari's eyes, he forced back a tear that threatened to escape his eyes. " Branmer?"

PART 8

This was impossible! Branmer was dead; he had died during a diplomatic mission many cycles ago. But seeing his former Shai Alit alive and well, stirred many memories and emotions in Neroon. As Alit he had served Branmer for a long time. To see the Minbari standing in front of him was a shock to Neroon.

Sardon arrived while Marcus was still asleep. He kicked the ranger in his left side, sending a jolt of pain through his already battered body. Marcus' eyes opened and the color in them dulled as he recognised Sardon. Immediately, Marcus told the presence in his mind not to reveal itself by 'talking' to him. Pushing himself into a sitting position, Marcus shivered as he looked into Sardon's eyes. The First One seemed pleased.

" There is something I want you to see." Making a circle in the air with his hand, a picture appeared.

Marcus had no time to figure out how this was possible; his attention was fully directed at the warrior onboard of a Minbari War Cruiser. " Neroon? What are you going to do with him?" His voice dropped as Neroon grew young again.

" I am going to give him what he always wanted. He never told you, did he? You never knew he was Branmer's lover? The two of them were close and I will make sure that he will never again want to leave Branmer. He will forget you. Look at his eyes. Neroon has already forgotten you. Do you see the desire in his eyes when he looks upon Branmer? Do you see it?"

Marcus saw it. The moment Neroon made eye contact with the Shai Alit, the warrior trembled. Yes, he saw the desire in Neroon's eyes. He had never known they had been lovers. Neroon had never told him of his past liaisons. The ranger wanted to close his eyes, but Sardon didn't allow it.

Grabbing some strands of Marcus' hair, Sardon forced the ranger to raise his face. " You will watch...He will betray you. "

He wasn't given a choice. Marcus had to watch. Sardon's booming laughter made him feel sick. ** Valen, I want to die. **

" Follow me to my quarters, Neroon."

Automatically falling back in his former role of second in command, Neroon bowed and followed Branmer. ** It can't be true; Branmer is dead. ** The door closed behind them and Neroon stared at Branmer, fully expecting the Minbari to disappear again. When Branmer reached out for him, Neroon was stunned to feel the warm flesh. This couldn't be an illusion. Looking into Branmer's eyes, Neroon saw the kind and affectionate expression in them. His empathic powers told him that this was Branmer. Neroon swallowed hard.

" You appear troubled."

Neroon knew his voice would tremble should he answer Branmer, so he kept quiet for the moment. There were so many conflicting emotions battling inside him, but in the end one thought prevailed. This was Branmer, the man he respected as a warrior; his first lover. Their liaison had been brief. After Branmer had died, Neroon had grieved the death of his Shai Alit. Back then, he would have done anything to bring Branmer back to life and now the Minbari was standing in front him. Even after all this time, he felt aroused as Branmer moved closer to rest a hand on his chest.

The touch seemed to burn through his uniform and Neroon felt lost as he stared into the other man's eyes. Branmer had never been the typical Minbari warrior. He had been religious caste before he became a warrior and Neroon had always admired Branmer's wisdom. Respect for the other had been very important in their relationship and Branmer had never forced him to do something he didn't want to. Abusing his power to get what he wanted was something Branmer would never do.

Realizing Branmer was waiting for his reply, Neroon took Branmer's hand in his and caressed the skin. He could feel the heat build in both their bodies. The feeling triggered memories Neroon hadn't thought of in a very long time.

Feeling hypnotized by Branmer's burning eyes, Neroon leaned in closer to claim Branmer's lips. The Shai Alit responded immediately and grasped Neroon's throat with his hands, forcing him to expose as much skin as possible. Branmer's teeth scratched the skin and Neroon shivered as a tongue slithered down his throat. ** I had forgotten about the violent passion we once shared. **

Remembering the first time Branmer had taken him, Neroon trembled. ** How inexperienced and naive I was back then. ** Their liaison began weeks after he had been promoted to Alit. The time the two Minbari spent together had grown and so had the attraction. Even now Neroon couldn't deny how much he yearned for Branmer's touch.

" Neroon?"

Branmer's voice sounded seductive. Neroon knew the other man was aroused and wanted him. He only had to nod or say yes...All doubt vanished as Branmer's hands disappeared underneath his clothing. Neroon panted as he surged into hardness and he forgot to breathe as Branmer's fingers moved over his erection. He tried to remain calm, but passion was quickly claiming him. " Branmer..."

Hardly able to form coherent thoughts, Neroon sensed how his pants were pulled down until he was exposed from the waist down. Branmer's hands seemed to caress his entire body; his lips smothered Neroon's whispers. He was lost; caught up in a passion that had once filled him completely.

" What is troubling you, Neroon? We are alone. There are no battles to be fought at this moment. You want me and I want you. Perfect clarity. You never hesitated before and yet I sense you're holding back now. Tell me to stop and I will stop."

" Don't stop...." Neroon didn't know what to say. Branmer's presence overwhelmed him. He had longed to be reunited with his Shai Alit for so long. Strong arms were wrapped around him and Neroon moaned as the Minbari turned him in the embrace. No longer able to look at Branmer, Neroon swallowed hard as Branmer freed himself from his trousers. A sad smile lay on Neroon's face as the Shai Alit bit into his shoulder; not gently but hard and aggressive. Feeling Branmer pinch one of his nipples made him aware how aroused he really was.

" Don't stop?"

The Shay Alit laughed and pulled Neroon closer. He felt the tip of Branmer's sex press against his entrance. ** Branmer always was the dominating one of the two of us. ** Neroon braced himself and a moment later Branmer entered him slowly. Fire moved through his body as he tightened around Branmer's shaft. It had been so long since he had been taken this aggressively.... Supporting himself, resting his arms against the wall, he felt pain and pleasure as Branmer's thrusts became deeper and much wilder. Neroon lost himself in his sensations and surrendered to the Shai Alit; savoring the ecstasy running through him.

Marcus' pain-filled eyes were staring at the scene Sardon was forcing him to watch. All strength left his body; his mind seemed paralysed. Sometimes he felt the presence reach out for him, but Marcus pushed it away. He would suffer alone.

" You see? He betrayed you. Neroon never loved you. Kirmana? He named you Kirmana to save his honor. You were a toy. Who knows how many times Neroon sought his pleasure elsewhere. You have lost, human. "

His fingernail clawed at his other hand; the Jogmanar cutting deeply into the skin. Marcus didn't even feel it.

As Branmer climaxed, Neroon groaned. At that moment, he saw a pair of green eyes in his mind; a pleading expression in them. Horrified, he realized what he was doing and bucked to throw Branmer off him; the Shai Alit immediately released him. Neroon fell to his knees, ashamed and repulsed by what he had done. ** Marcus, I betrayed you... ** Tears filled his eyes. He hadn't cried since Branmer's death. Back then Neroon had cried and mourned his death in the seclusion of his own room. Never before had he wept with someone else present, but he couldn't hold back any longer. The ranger's name echoed in his mind and Neroon knew he had failed the ranger. Too blind to see Sardon's trap for what it was he had walked straight into it. Sardon had used his love and affection against him, had seduced him by showing him what he once had. ** I should have been stronger. Sardon offers me Branmer and I fall for it. I am a fool. Marcus, I am weak. **

Sardon felt the sudden shift of emotions inside Neroon and knew he was losing. In the midst of his passion Neroon had remembered Marcus and had thrown off Branmer. This was not going as planned. Sardon had been so sure that Neroon couldn't resist this temptation. A wave of his arm made the images vanish. He couldn't risk showing more to the human. Looking down at the huddled form at his feet, Sardon delighted in feeling Marcus' terror. He had achieved his goal after all. Marcus was convinced Neroon had deserted him. Good. " Do you want to see more? I can show you..." Sardon knew the ranger wouldn't want to see more. The human's eyes were dry now. There were no more tears to shed. The stare in them was blank. " I am so sorry you had to see this, but better to die knowing the truth as living a lie."

There was an amused tone in Sardon's voice; mocking the supposed sincerity of his words. Sorry? Marcus wondered if the First One knew the meaning of that word.

" Kill me."

The whisper seemed to grow into a scream before it reached Sardon's ears. The pain in those two words was so intense that Sardon couldn't resist drawing closer. " No, I won't kill you. You can take your own life or starve to death. I want to see you in pain."

While his body shook violently, Marcus' hands opened. They rested on the ground, palms upward. There was blood on his fingers. Feeling paralysed, the ranger was no longer able to move. To breathe seemed impossible, but his lungs demanded oxygen, so he coughed and took in some freezing cold air. " I still love him." It took all his strength to choke out those words. Marcus closed his eyes and missed seeing Sardon's terrified expression.

" What? You can't love him. He doesn't care for you."

" But I still care for him. I will always care for him. "

Sardon was infuriated. This couldn't be happening. Marcus still loved the warrior and Sardon's mind felt the guilt in Neroon's soul for betraying his lover like this. Was there no way to make one of them break? If he couldn't crush the love between them, he was lost and Sylvan would be free once more.

Marcus never noticed the rage inside Sardon. He only knew the agony of a lost love. The Jogmanar was still on his finger. The metal would only expand once he was dead. ** Soon, I will be dead. **

" Neroon? Did I hurt you? By Valen, are you crying?" Branmer pulled his second in command closer and studied Neroon's expression. He had grown fond of Neroon. It was love that urged him to cover up Neroon's nakedness and to take him in his arms. There was something terribly wrong here. They had been together many times before, but Neroon had never been this emotional afterwards. What was wrong here? Why was there this strange expression of desperation in Neroon's eyes? Branmer berated himself. Perhaps Neroon was still too young for this liaison; he knew he was Neroon's first lover.

It took Neroon some moments to compose himself. He felt weak and embarrassed for bursting out into tears, but the emotional roller coaster he had been on this last few months had finally taken him over the edge of his control. " I am all right, Branmer. You didn't do anything wrong." Freeing himself from the other man's embrace, Neroon managed to get to his feet. Straightening out and adjusting his uniform he walked over to the other side of the room and sat down.

Branmer followed him and sat down beside him. The younger Minbari's behaviour puzzled him. Neroon had been passionate from the start and sometimes he was a bit too emotional. It was a flaw Branmer had told him to work on. But now in the confines of his private rooms, he reached out for Neroon. " Tell me."

The shame inside Neroon refused to leave. Lifting his eyes at last, Neroon found the courage to look at Branmer.

Branmer was concerned; Neroon's hooded eyes spoke of an immense sadness and pain. He hardly recognised his second in command. Confused, he rubbed Neroon's back repeating his earlier request, wondering if Neroon had heard him. " Neroon, tell me what's wrong. We have always trusted each other. Have I done something to betray that trust?"

Forcing himself to answer, Neroon shook his head. " You didn't betray my trust. It is so complicated.... I betrayed someone, someone I love and who is depending on me to save his life." Neroon slowly pulled off his gloves and heard how Branmer held his breath as the Jogmanar became visible. It had been a gamble; Neroon hadn't been sure he would still be wearing the ring. Apparently Sardon had forgotten about it.

Baffled, Branmer stared at the piece of jewellery. Neroon had never worn one before." You pledged yourself to someone? When did this happen and why didn't you tell me? I would have respected your choice to be with someone else." Branmer was upset. Why hadn't Neroon told him?

" It's a long story, Branmer. You'll never believe me."

"Try me, Neroon."

< Can you hear me, Marcus? Answer me! I can sense your pain. Please don't shut me out.> Silence answered him and the presence wondered if the ranger was in a stupor. The agony the human was in made the presence ache as well. The essence tried again.

< Marcus? You are not alone. Let me help you. >

<Help. Why bother? I am already dead. >

The essence felt relieved; an answer at last. Intent on keeping Marcus talking, he addressed him. < You need to have faith, Marcus. Didn't you notice how Sardon suddenly grew concerned? >

<Concerned? No....> Marcus felt himself slipping away again. His body was weak and his mind numb. Time and time again he was tormented by the vision of Branmer making love to Neroon.

< Marcus, you can't give up. I can't allow you to will yourself to death. I am not yet ready to die. I don't know what it is, but there is something I have to do. It's not our time to die. >

< Too bad, my friend. I can hear the bells toll and they toll for me. >Heaving himself towards the edge of the chasm, the ranger stared at the darkness awaiting him. It would only take seconds.

< NO!! I won't allow you to do this! >

The mental scream made Marcus cringe.

< You can't kill me, you; US.>

As he tried to push his body over the edge, Marcus was shocked to discover that he couldn't move --he couldn't move--.

< I told you I was going to stop you. >

< Give me back the control over my body. >

<No. We are not going to give up that easily. The darkness cannot be allowed to win like this. Now pull yourself together and move away from the edge. >

The ranger had no other choice than to give in. He ended up some feet away from the cleft and rested his back against a rock.

<You can survive this. We WILL survive this. >

Marcus grimaced. < You have a lot more faith than I will ever have. Do you have a name? >The ranger felt strangely relieved now the crisis had passed. If it hadn't been for the presence in his mind, he would now be lying dead at the bottom of the chasm. There was a silence for some moments. Marcus was afraid that he had only imagined the mental voice and that he was alone again.

<My name?? I...I think it's Sylvan. >

<Sylvan?>This time it was the ranger who repeated the name. Certain of the fact that he was going to die of lack of fluids, Marcus managed to grin in the face of death. He couldn't help making his next remark.< We are going to die anyway you know. It would have been over by now if you hadn't stopped me. Dying of starvation is even worse than jumping off a ledge. >

< Did anyone ever tell you that you are a pessimist, Marcus? >

Balancing on the edge of hysteria, Marcus chuckled.< Well, it's hard to be an optimist under these kind of circumstances.... >

The presence somehow managed to return that chuckle; Marcus swore he heard it.

< So what are we going to do now? >

The question caught Marcus off-guard. < Do? There is nothing we can do. >

<Why don't you try reaching out for Neroon's mind? >

< Have you gone mad, Sylvan? Why would I do such a thing? He loves someone else now.>Marcus felt an immense powerful wave of warmth rush through his half-frozen body. Sylvan's voice became stronger as he addressed the ranger.

< Neroon didn't choose Branmer. He wants you, listen to him. He is trying to get through to you.... Can’t you hear him, Marcus? I can.... He still loves you, listen to him.>

Not wanting to believe the pleading voice, Marcus tried to lock himself away in the darkest corner of his mind. He couldn't take any more pain. The voice took him by surprise; a voice like velvet rang in his mind.

<Marcus? Answer me, please. I am trying to find you. >

Shaking his head, Marcus aimed his next remark at Sylvan. <Don't fall for it. It's probably Sardon. Neroon...> He choked while thinking of his former lover and cursed the Jogmanar on his finger. It was hard for him to finish his thought.<Neroon isn't interested in me any longer. >

< Silly human.... Don’t you know that I will always love you? I pledged myself to you and I don't care what I have to do to know you safe. Marcus, hold on. Don't give into Sardon, he. >

A mental scream echoed in his mind and Marcus knew it was Sardon. Somehow the First One had heard them and managed to sever the link. Neroon's words still lingered in his mind. Silly human, it made Marcus smile. It was a warm smile, full of love and compassion. Yes, Neroon had called him that before. The warrior also told him to hold on, that he still loved him. Marcus felt at peace for the first time since weeks. He could die now he knew that Neroon hadn't deserted him. He suddenly realized that Sylvan hadn't sent him any messages for some time.

<Sylvan? Are you still here?>

< Yes, Marcus.... It’s just.... I remembered something. >

<What did you remember? >

< I know Sardon; he's my brother.>

PART 9

He had to sit down: the attempt to reach Marcus had exhausted him. There had been very powerful blocks and he had been on the point of giving up when he had felt Marcus' presence. The ranger's despair had shaken him badly. Neroon was uncertain though; if it had been emotional or physical pain he had felt.

Still not used to his younger appearance, Neroon caught himself looking in a mirror. It was the strangest thing to be thrown back into this younger body. He had to get to the ranger; there had to be a way. Sensing Branmer's eyes on him, Neroon turned around and gazed into the Shai Slit’s eyes. It had taken him quite some time to explain everything to Branmer and at times his story had sounded unbelievable even to himself. He remembered the bewildered stare in Branmer's eyes as he had told his story. Thankfully, he had managed to convince Branmer of his sincerity.

It had been hard for Branmer to listen to Neroon without interrupting him. As Neroon told him of Sardon's test, Branmer had realized how confused and ashamed Neroon had to feel. ** He looks like 'my Neroon' -- who should be somewhere on this ship -- but according to this Neroon he's much older. I only know him like this; young, strong, passionate. ** Branmer studied Neroon; the strong jaw line, the vigor in his movements...** Wait, the eyes. They are different. I have never seen this kind of suffering in them. He's telling the truth. If this is so hard on him, it must be even harder on the ranger; Marcus Cole. ** The anxiety in Neroon's expression was growing.

" I have managed to contact Marcus." Neroon needed some time to compose himself. The ranger's pain still lingered in his mind and the warrior wondered how Branmer was going to react to his story. He could use some help, some support, but would Branmer offer it him?

" How is he?" It hadn't taken Branmer long to reach a decision; he wanted to help Neroon and the human ranger. The older Minbari sighed. He thought he had left behind all religious and spiritual discussions once he had left the Religious Caste. Now it seemed like they had managed to catch up with him somehow. Locking eyes with the other warrior, Branmer laid a hand on Neroon's shoulder for support. The Shai Alit heard the tremor in Neroon's voice.

" Marcus is in pain. I also sensed Sardon close to him. His hate is suffocating Marcus' mind. I have to get the ranger to safety." ** But how am I going to accomplish that? I don't even know how to get to him or how to leave this place. **

" What are your plans, Neroon?"

" I don't know. How I can possibly fight, DEFEAT a First One?"

Branmer considered this in silence. Was there a way he could help Neroon?

" How did you manage to get here? This Lorien said that you penetrated Sardon's defence shield...That would mean you are already 'inside'. Perhaps you should concentrate once more and track Marcus down mentally? You told me the two of you are connected somehow, use that advantage."

Hope flamed inside Neroon. To know Branmer was on his side encouraged him to go on. Maybe Branmer was right; the connection was strong. He should use it. " I will try reaching out once more." Neroon smiled as he felt the kind emotions inside Branmer; he had never expected Branmer to believe what had happened to him. Centering himself as he had done before, he tried to contact Marcus through the darkness that was shielding the ranger. Branmer wondered out loud how to aid the warrior in his search.

" Neroon, if Sardon feels threatened by your love for Marcus, perhaps you should concentrate on that emotion." Branmer's hand was still resting on Neroon's shoulder. Neroon accepted the gesture and felt grateful for the support Branmer offered him. He suddenly felt a pull forward and didn't hesitate to give in to it. Because of the physical connection Branmer was pulled forward as well. Briefly panicking, the Shai Alit forcefully composed himself.

The knock on the door passed by unheard. As the young Alit Neroon looked inside to see if Branmer was here, he found nothing but an empty room.

Branmer and Neroon found themselves enveloped in darkness. Both men desperately tried to grow accustomed to the obscurity. They had to find a source that could provide them with light. Looking up, Neroon saw a few stars, no moon, no sun, nothing. It was only then that he realized that Branmer was still standing behind him.

Control. He was losing his control over Marcus and Neroon. How could this have gone so wrong? Why hadn't Neroon chosen to be with Branmer? Sardon was losing the battle and didn't like it. The fact that Sylvan might have found a way to free himself infuriated him. Sardon never thought that the ranger and the Minbari would prove to be that close. They had the power to defeat him, even without Lorien's help.

Frowning, he realized that Neroon had managed to get inside the cave in which he was keeping Marcus prisoner. He had to move quickly now. Reunited, Neroon and Marcus had the power to bring light to the darkness. The most important thing however was to make sure that Neroon wouldn't give his life to save Marcus. Should that happen, Sylvan would be free at last and Sardon knew his brother would challenge him. This time Sylvan would be prepared to fight him and might even win. Covering himself in darkness, he descended into the cave. It was close to sunrise and Sardon knew he was running out of time.

<Marcus? Are you asleep? I think you'd better wake up now. We are no longer alone. >

Sylvan's words woke the ranger. He had been dozing; not really able to fall asleep because of the pain in his leg. < Is it Sardon? > Shifting his body a little, the ranger managed to acquire a more comfortable position. His leg continued to bother him.

< No, it's not Sardon. I am picking up two thought patterns. I am getting stronger, Marcus. I can feel the strength growing inside me. >Sylvan was concerned for the human. Marcus was in need of water and the First One could actually sense how the strength inside the ranger was diminishing. It was imperative that he found a way to help Marcus. <Marcus? Can you call them? They must be close. >

For one moment Sylvan considered telling Marcus that it was Neroon's mind he sensed, but he decided against it. There was an intense pain inside the ranger' mind every time Neroon's name was mentioned. Sylvan was afraid that Marcus would refuse to co-operate should he know who was heading their way. The First One realized that a wavering light coming from above them was slowly replacing the darkness. Dawn? Where were they anyway? Some kind of cave?

<I am not sure I can speak. My throat hurts. >

< Try, Marcus. >

It was true, his throat felt like hot sand. Marcus couldn't remember the last time he had something to drink. Neither did he know how much time had passed since the crash. His instincts told him that at least 24 hours must have passed, probably more.

" Who's there? Hello?" Those words were all he could manage. His voice broke and he coughed. Water, he needed water so badly. A noise coming from below caught his attention. Small rocks began to tumble down.

<They didn't hear you, Marcus. You must try again, harder. >

< I can't, Sylvan...I can't. > Marcus hated disappointing Sylvan, but there was no way he could call out louder than that.

< Then I will try. Marcus, I can only send a telepathic call. It might hurt you in your weakened state. >

<Hurt? Don't worry about me, Sylvan. >

< But I do worry about you, Marcus. >

Bracing himself, Marcus waited for Sylvan to send that telepathic call. The moment Sylvan sent the message, the ranger felt a sharp sting in his head and lost consciousness. The intensity of the call hurt too much.

As Neroon and Branmer received that call, they stared at each other. Neroon had heard this voice before. Not wondering why he was able to return a message, he reacted immediately. < Who are you? Do you need help? >

<My name is Sylvan and yes, we could use some help. >

Sylvan. Neroon hadn't expected to find the First One here. Chiding himself, he realized that wherever Marcus was, Sylvan had to be there too. After all, their souls were linked together. He couldn't deny the relief he felt hearing on Sylvan's voice. It must mean the First One had awakened and knew what was going on. Marcus had someone who took care of him; the ranger wasn't alone. Neroon was grateful for that.

<Marcus is here as well, Neroon. He's alive. >

" Branmer, did you hear those words as well?" For a brief second Neroon was afraid to believe that he had succeeded in finding Marcus. But the fact that Sylvan was with the ranger calmed him. Branmer nodded, indicating he heard the voice as well.

<You are awake? >

<Yes, and my powers are growing, thanks to your love. But I am still too weak to challenge Sardon. My soul is linked to Marcus'. I am stuck in his mind. >

<Where are you? Why can't I hear Marcus? >

< I think you are underneath us. We are stuck on the ledge. You'll have to climb up here. You can't hear Marcus because he is unconscious. He needs help. >

Branmer was already climbing and Neroon followed his lead immediately. The rising sun provided them with light and they could see the best places to rest their hands and feet during the climb. Neroon discovered something else. The light of dawn was enough to identify their surroundings. " We are in some sort of cave, Branmer. There is only one place where some sunlight is able to get through."

The other Minbari nodded; he had reached the same conclusion. The Shai Alit wondered if they were going to get out of this alive. Something told him that he wasn't supposed to be here. His presence was something Sardon would not expect. Perhaps he would be able to use that to their advantage.

For Neroon it felt like the climb lasted hours, but it was only a few minutes. Suddenly he was afraid to face Marcus. The moment of forgotten passion that he had shared with his former lover made him feel ashamed. Would Marcus be able to forgive him? ** Do I have to tell him? ** His conscience answered him. ** Without honesty there can be no trust. Have faith in Marcus. **

As they reached the edge, Neroon was able to make out the shape lying on it. There was just enough light to tell him it was Marcus. The ranger looked haggard and exhausted. Neroon didn't wait for Branmer to reach it as well. His younger body had come in handy this time. The ledge offered enough room for the three of them, but Marcus was lying dangerously close to the precipice. Sylvan had been right; the ranger was unconscious.

< He needs help; water.... His leg is broken. > Sylvan felt an immense joy seeing Neroon in person at last. This was the one who could set him free and save Marcus from certain death.

Sitting on his heels, Neroon gingerly examined Marcus' injury. The leg was fractured in several places; he had to put it in splints. He needed wood or something similar to do so.

Branmer watched Neroon closely; love radiated from the warrior's face. The Shai Alit had always known that Neroon was special in a certain way and he had tried to teach his second in command to act honorful and respectful in all situations, even in battle. It seemed Neroon had learned all lessons extremely well. Not expecting Sylvan to talk to them telepathically, Branmer's heart missed a beat. This was most unnerving; hearing a strange voice in his head.

<Sardon is starving him; perhaps one of you can get him some water? >

Hearing this made Neroon even angrier. Turning to Branmer, Neroon asked him to try and find some water. It would mean even more climbing, but the hesitant sunlight would aid Branmer in climbing the rocks this time.

" If there is water, I will find it."

Not wasting any more time, Branmer left. Neroon knew he should find something to use as splints, but he couldn't leave Marcus alone. Every time he tried to move away, he felt something pull him back. < Sylvan? Does Marcus know why Sardon is after him? >

< No, Sardon is smart. He won't tell Marcus why. To be honest.... Although I know the reason why, I haven't told Marcus anything except that Sardon is my brother. I am not sure he can deal with it right now. Although he is very strong, he has suffered much. I should never have listened to him when he offered to take me along into his next rebirth, but I was desperate and ignorant. Neroon, I have never been this close to deliverance before. Tell me, how is Lorien? >

Stroking back some dark hair from the ranger's face, Neroon felt lost. < Lorien helped me. I think he's biding his time. Sardon is strong.... > The warrior stared at the blood on his fingertips. He hadn't seen the bleeding wound near Marcus' temple.

" Marcus? Wake up. I need you. Marcus?" In a fit of irrational fear, Neroon tried to reach him telepathically. He had to know Marcus remembered him, still loved, and cared for him.

Something, someone was forcing him to wake up. Marcus didn't want to regain consciousness. It was peaceful where he was; deep inside his own mind. This was the one place where Sardon couldn't touch him; his soul was safe from the malevolent First One until the moment he died. The ranger didn't want to think of what would happen once Sardon captured his soul.

" Marcus! Wake up! Don't do this to me!"

Was that Neroon's voice? It couldn't be. The warrior was with Branmer. And although Marcus heard Neroon expressing his love for him once more, the ranger couldn't believe it. Why would Neroon choose him? Branmer could offer him a lot more. ** No, I don't want to remember seeing him in Branmer's embrace.... **

" Marcus? If you are not going to wake up...I will make you return to me and Sylvan will help me get through to you."

The demanding voice penetrated his mind and Marcus no longer had the strength to resist it. He would have to face Neroon anyway...and perhaps it was only Sardon playing his little games. Opening his eyes, he realized the darkness was receding. The ranger was speechless as he looked into Neroon's eyes; the warrior looked scared. For a moment he feared it was Sardon in Neroon's form, but the First One would never allow fear to show in his eyes.

" Thank Valen you returned to me, Marcus."

The relief in Neroon's eyes was evident. The warrior looked so young; even more attractive and desirable to Marcus. Averting his eyes, Marcus stared at his hands.

Neroon saw the hesitance in Marcus' eyes and wondered what was wrong. He knew he had to find a way to get through to the ranger. Gently caressing Marcus's hands, he slid one finger over the Jogmanar. He sensed the ranger's discomfort. " Marcus? Why won't you look at me?" The ranger looked like a wounded animal to Neroon. He was determined to make Sardon pay for everything he had done to Marcus. Thinking of Sardon made Neroon aware of the fact that Sylvan had stopped talking.

<Sylvan? >Neroon rubbed Marcus' cold hands and waited for an answer. The fact that he was able to touch the man he loved, made Neroon sigh from relief.

< Yes? >

<Why is Marcus acting like this? >

< Why don't you ask him? >

Well, he wasn't getting anywhere like this, so Neroon decided on the direct approach. Lifting Marcus' chin, he made the ranger look at him. There were tears hiding in those green eyes. " Tell me what's wrong Marcus."

It sounded more like a demand than a request. Marcus' voice cracked answering Neroon. " If you want to be with Branmer.... I won't stay in your way."

The whispering voice made Neroon quiver. Did Marcus know what had happened between him and the Shai Alit?

<Yes, Neroon. He knows. Sardon forced him to watch. >

Now, Neroon understood. He was about to explain to Marcus that he hadn't been thinking rationally when he allowed Branmer to take him, but then dismissed the idea. It would sound like an excuse, rather than apology. " Marcus, can you forgive me? I hurt you.... I love you. You are the only one I want to be with."

A wavering smile appeared on Marcus' pale face. His heart knew Neroon was sincere. The warrior had been caught in the moment; an unfair test Sardon had thought of. But he still felt hurt. He wished he could believe in Neroon's love for him, but the vision of Neroon and Branmer together tormented him.

Neroon sensed the turmoil inside Marcus. It was no surprise the ranger doubted his feelings. Neroon could only imagine what Sardon had done to torment him. ** I have to convince him. ** There was only way Neroon knew of to get through to the stubborn ranger. Caressing Marcus' face, he leaned in and claimed those soft lips. The ranger shied away for a moment, then gave in to the kiss. Marcus' lips quivered, his eyelids fluttered and Neroon saw hope in his green eyes. The warrior sent him a message at the same time. < If you doubt my love for you, look into my mind and see for yourself. >

PART 10

Feeling Neroon this close to him made Marcus forget his pain. The kiss was as passionate as it had always been and spoke of nothing but desire. Savoring the moment, Marcus closed his eyes. He knew Neroon was sincere. The warrior loved only him. It had been stupid of him to doubt Neroon's love. " I don't need to look into your mind, I forgive you...I know you love me." Talking was hard for the ranger. His throat ached and he felt tired. There was a soft but determined expression in the Minbari's eyes as he heard those words. Words seemed inadequate to express his feelings so Neroon simply held Marcus tightly in his arms. Some moments later he forced himself to break the embrace.

" Marcus, I need to get something to splint your leg with. I don't know how long I will be gone. "

The ranger nodded, a bit reluctant to let go of him.

" There is one more thing you need to know."

Neroon remembered just in time that he had to tell Marcus that Branmer was here as well. ** I should have known that you would forgive me. ** Running his Jogmanar over Marcus' skin made the other man quaver. A weak smile appeared on the ranger's face. " Branmer is here as well. Somehow he was pulled into the darkness as well. I asked him to find some water for you. He could return any moment now. He wants to help us. Branmer is a good man, Marcus."

The smile froze on Marcus' face and Neroon sensed the ranger's inexplicable fear. The emotion surprised him.

" Why are you scared?"

" I..." The ranger scraped his throat; he desperately needed something to drink. < He was...is your first love, Neroon. I am afraid that I will lose you to him. I know it's an irrational fear, I can't help it. >

The warrior reached out and his empathic powers made him feel the emotions Marcus was going through; he understood. " You're exhausted, dehydrated. You need to rest. Let me do the worrying, Marcus."

The smile on the ranger's face returned. He trusted Neroon. Marcus knew he was in no condition to get himself out of this mess.

< Sylvan? Are you still there? >

<Yes, Neroon. >

<Please keep an eye on Marcus until Branmer or I return? >

There was a twinkle in Marcus' eyes as he playfully tried to poke Neroon between the ribs. < I am not going anywhere in case you're are concerned about me sneaking off. >

Shaking his head, Neroon looked deeply into Marcus' eyes. " I know, Marcus. Just stay here and rest. We will find a way out of here."

Sardon watched the ranger. Now that Neroon was gone, Marcus was alone once more. The First One knew he had to take advantage of that. This had to stop now. It wasn't a game any longer to Sardon. He refused to lose this battle. It had become too serious; a serious threat to his existence. Checking on the whereabouts of the two Minbari, Sardon was satisfied to find them at a distance of the ranger. He had to make his move now.

Marcus had no idea he wasn't alone on the ledge any longer. Sylvan was strangely quiet and the ranger didn't want to intrude on his privacy. It was weird enough to have a voice, another presence in his mind to begin with. Neroon had come to get him. He still couldn't believe it. The question why Sardon was so intent on keeping them apart still bugged him. Sylvan had told him that Sardon was his brother. He knew Sylvan was getting stronger. Apparently the two First Ones were enemies and he had been caught in the middle of their eternal battle. If only he knew the whole truth. He was about to ask Sylvan when the First One sent him a message.

< Sardon is here. >

The words made the ranger freeze. The First One must have waited until Neroon was gone to move in on him. What would Sardon want of him?

" Human. It's time to settle the score. I feel Sylvan inside you. He's awake, but he can't help you. No one can. You are going to die and you will die out of your own free will."

" Neroon.... will..." Writhing from fear, Marcus tried to stay calm. It wasn't working. Sardon was invisible; there was no way of telling where the First One was. Thinking of speaking once more, Marcus was stopped by Sylvan.

< Let Marcus be. Your fight is with me, Sardon. You have become even more evil than you were. I can help you, brother. If only you let me. The universe is unbalanced. It can't stay like that. >

< BE QUIET. >

The yell made Marcus' head hurt. Great, now the two First Ones were shouting at each other in his head. It actually hurt.

" I am going to give you a choice how to end this, human. Either you jump off the ledge or I will kill Neroon slowly and painfully and you will watch like I made you do before. One of you has to die. I won't allow you to leave together. And Sylvan, stay out of this. You are too weak to stop me."

Lowering his eyes, Marcus felt defeated once more. The euphoria from moments ago was vanishing quickly.

" Make your choice, human."

<Don't listen to him, Marcus...Sardon. >

<BE QUIET!!! > Sardon went on step further and managed to sever the connection between the ranger and the other First One.

Feeling lost, Marcus thought of Neroon. He couldn't bear the thought that Sardon would kill Neroon. Protectiveness overruled his concern for his own well being.

" You'll let him ...live?"

" Yes. They can both leave here alive, if you make the RIGHT choice and jump."

Realizing he was wasting time, Sardon manifested himself in Lorien's shape and grinned at the ranger.

Marcus swallowed hard and returned the evil glare. There was no doubt in his mind that Sardon would live up to his threat. His decision was made quickly. " I will do it.... but.... I can't walk."

" Then crawl."

The words were dripping with hate and venom. Marcus knew he was staring into the face of evil in his purest and most powerful form. He wished Sylvan could help him, but he no longer sensed his presence in his mind. Whatever Sardon had done had terminated the connection between them. Slowly heaving himself to the edge once more, the ranger stared into the crevice. It was deep and the impact of the fall would kill him. Resigned, Marcus and lifted his eyes one last time to see the weak beams of sunlight making their way through the one opening in the cave. ** Forgive me Neroon. I am trying to save your life. Please do not think badly of me once I am gone. ** Closing his eyes, the ranger managed to get to his feet. Leaning heavily on the rocks, he cringed from the pain that shot up from his leg. Facing away from the cleft, the ranger let go of the rocks and felt the flow of wind beneath his body as he slowly toppled backwards. Stretching his arms he began to fall.

Sardon smiled. He had won.

Something was terribly wrong. Neroon's instincts went haywire as he heard the words in his mind. ** Forgive me Neroon. I am trying to save your life. Please do not think badly of me once I am gone. ** Once I am gone? What was that ranger talking about? The warrior looked up and his body tensed as he saw the falling form. He knew it was Marcus. The ranger's eyes were closed and he was falling quickly. Neroon acted immediately. Somehow he had known it would come down to this. Using all the power inside his young body, he jumped after Marcus. Remaining calm and calculating, Neroon reached for the ranger and pulled him closer. They were approaching the bottom of the chasm quickly and Neroon hoped he had enough time to make his plan work.

Marcus' eyes flashed open as he felt how someone grabbed hold of him. Horrified, he stared into his lover's eyes. <NO! This way you will die as well.... Neroon, why? >

< I can't let you die, Marcus. You already made too many sacrifices. Now it is my turn. > Wrapping his arms and legs protectively around the ranger, Neroon sent him one short message. < Curl yourself into a tight ball. >

Marcus knew what Neroon was doing. The warrior wanted to break their fall with his own body.< Neroon, don't do this. >

<It's too late now. Just do as I told you, Marcus. Don't deny me now. >

His broken leg made it hard for Marcus to mould himself to Neroon's body as he curled himself into a little ball. Neroon's body tensed, his muscles tightened. The warrior's body was now firmly wrapped around the ranger.< Brace yourself for the impact. > Neroon's command sounded determined. They both knew that if Neroon managed to break their fall the warrior would end up severely injured or even worse, dead. Everything happened quickly after that last message. They hit the bottom with high speed and Marcus stopped thinking momentarily. His fear to lose Neroon paralysed him. The impact was worse than Neroon expected. They had fallen quite a distance and as they made contact with the ground, Neroon heard his bones snap. Forcing himself to hold onto Marcus they rolled downhill. They finally came to a standstill and Neroon only released the ranger once he was sure that there was no more danger.

It took Marcus some time to regain his senses. As Neroon's hold on him grew weak, he turned around and was terrified to see the blood dripping from the warrior's mouth. Neroon had trouble breathing and was clutching his rib cage. Too stunned to do anything, Marcus sat there holding Neroon's hand. This couldn't be happening. It was so unreal. Hearing Neroon fight for breath, Marcus caressed the warrior's face. Neroon's eyes fluttered open and a victorious smile appeared on the Minbari's face.

Marcus didn't know it yet, but Neroon knew they had beaten Sardon in the end. Willing to give his life for the ranger, Neroon had made the ultimate sacrifice. There was a dreadful expression in Marcus eyes and Neroon sensed the ranger in his mind. Raising his left hand, he managed to cup Marcus' face in the palm of his blood stained hand. He pulled the ranger closer and whispered his last words into Marcus' ear. The Minbari knew he was dying; he wasn't afraid. Knowing that Marcus would live was all that mattered." Always...remember.... I love...you, Marcus..."

Tears were running over the ranger's face as he felt the trembling in Neroon's body. One more convulsion, one last intake of breath.... and the life in Neroon's eyes died. The blank stare broke.... his last thought faded away and Marcus had to withdraw from Neroon's mind. ** Dead, he's dead.... Lord no. You can't allow this.... Neroon, why did you do this? I can't live without you...**Exhausted and emotionally broken, Marcus pounded on the Minbari's chest; a keening wail left his lips. The blows became weaker and desperate. Choking on his emotions, Marcus collapsed on Neroon's dead body. He lost consciousness the moment Sylvan began to break free from Sardon's prison.

Lorien felt the shift in the universal balance the moment Neroon died. The Minbari had set things in motion that would deliver Sylvan from his suffering. But the price had been high; too high. The First One knew the time had come to get involved and help Sylvan to deal with Sardon for once and for all. This time they had to defeat Sardon. The balance in the universe had to be restored. Reaching out for Sylvan, Lorien only felt Marcus' pain. That could only mean that there was still a connection between the human and the First One. The pain coming from the ranger saddened Lorien. Determined to make his stand with Sylvan, Lorien faded away.

Sylvan wrestled free from Sardon's chains. Whole once more, a blinding, luminous light surrounded him as his energy was restored to him. He felt stronger than he ever had been and caught up in the moment, Sylvan's light shone brighter than ever. A sharp pain moved through him as he watched the crumbled form of the human who had helped him. The dead body of the Minbari was now resting in a pool of blood. He was determined to right this terrible wrong. Knowing Sardon was waiting for him, Sylvan couldn't waste any time. He was briefly distracted as a Minbari appeared to his left. Not paying any attention to Branmer, Sylvan concentrated on the task at hand. Neroon's sacrifice had been necessary, but the First One never expected to feel these emotions. He knew they belonged to Marcus, but the ranger had become a part of him; the First One suffered as well from the loss.

Staring at the fallen forms huddled together, Branmer knew he was too late. He had seen the ranger jump and his blood froze as he realized that Neroon was going after him. If only he had been closer. But he had been too caught up searching for water. Running down a path, he watched Neroon reach out for Marcus. Branmer knew Neroon would try to save the ranger. As the bodies hit the bottom of the crevice, he saw them bounce and roll downhill. Blood appeared on Neroon's mouth and Branmer held his distance. Although he wanted to be close to Neroon, the Minbari realized that only Marcus was entitled to share those last seconds with Neroon. So the Minbari watched from a distance and forced back tears when he saw Neroon's eyes go blank. Neroon had died a warrior's death. The wail that left the ranger's lips made him shrink back momentarily. All the pain inside the human was brought together in that cry. At first, Branmer wanted to stop the human from pounding Neroon's chest, but he realized how hurt the ranger was. As the ranger collapsed, Branmer walked towards him. He knew Neroon would want the human to be safe. Branmer wanted to honor Neroon's last wish and would look after Marcus Cole.

He stopped in his tracks as a dazzling light left the ranger's body. It was shapeless, a swirling mass of pure energy, growing, flashing even brighter in golden colors. Was this Sylvan? Focusing on the ranger, Branmer saw he was unconscious.

Sylvan had to act quickly before Neroon's soul would leave his mortal body. The First One sent a jolt of his own energy through the warrior's dead body and waited to see if he had been in time to revive Neroon. Sylvan never intended to desert the two people who had saved him.

A strange, blinding light surged through the darkness. Neroon's soul had been preparing to flee his dead body when something called him back. An unknown force filled him and he sucked air into his lungs. The next moments were painful. His broken bones began to heal and returned to their original place; he groaned. Tentatively stretching his body, he opened his eyes and saw the light hovering above him. He swallowed hard as two eyes appeared in the middle of the whirling energy.

< Take care of Marcus, Neroon. I think he was hurt when I left his soul unprepared. Get him to the flyer, follow that tunnel. >

Neroon looked into the direction Sylvan pointed out to him as the First One used his energy to flare up in a certain direction. The Minbari was confused." But I died..."

< Yes. You died, and I gave back the life you sacrificed. We will talk later. I have to deal with Sardon first. I will join you once I am done here. >

The energy began to float away from him. Neroon knew he couldn't help Sylvan; but he could help Marcus. Never expecting to see the ranger's face ever again, Neroon lifted the cold and motionless body from the ground. He checked Marcus' breathing and pulse. It looked like the ranger was merely unconscious, but Neroon wanted a physician to have a look at Marcus as quickly as possible. A voice coming from behind him, made him spin around, pressing the unconscious ranger even closer to his chest.

" I can't believe it, Neroon. You died. I witnessed your death with my own eyes."

" I can't believe it myself."

The ground beneath their feet shook firmly as a jolt of dark energy impacted near them.

" We have to get out of the cave. I don't want to be here with Sardon and Sylvan fighting each other. We should make a run for the flyer." Neroon placed one hand at the back of the ranger's neck and rested Marcus' head against his shoulder. His other hand was tightly wrapped around the ranger's knees. Carrying him like a babe, Neroon began to run, quickly followed by Branmer who was still in denial about everything he had witnessed. Above them a terrible battle was fought between the eternal forces of good and evil.

Casting one more glance behind him, Sylvan watched them leave the cave, which had been Marcus' prison for the last 2 days. The First One knew Neroon would take care of the human he had come to know so intimately that it almost hurt Sylvan to be without him now. He missed hearing Marcus' thoughts in his mind. There was no more denying it; being a part of the ranger had changed him forever. The human was a mortal being and his feelings were much more intense than Sylvan had ever thought possible. Even when Sardon had taken away his life-force in those early days, Sylvan had never felt fear as deeply as Marcus did. In hindsight, Sylvan realized he had made a terrible mistake in having mercy on his brother when Sardon attacked him the first time. He should have struck back mercilessly. Now that he was once more part of the universe, Sylvan felt the pain and hurt of all living beings that had suffered because of Sardon's cruelty. Determined not to make the same mistake twice, Sylvan focused his attention on his adversary. He was going to make sure that Sardon would never again hurt anyone. Watching Sardon's black energy closing in on him, Sylvan experienced a new emotion. He remembered Marcus naming that feeling for him at the First One's request during their captivity. ** So this is how anger feels** Concentrating on the task at hand, he addressed his brother. <Sardon. The time has come for you to pay for your heartless deeds. I will allow your reign of terror no longer. >

Sardon's reply was short and determined. <You'll have to defeat me first, brother. >

The last word was spat in disgust and loathing. Sylvan realized that Sardon's soul was beyond redemption and truly evil. Pure energy flared through him and he knew he could defeat his brother. But he had to wait. Someone else's presence was required here in this moment of time.

Lorien heard Sylvan's call and answered his child immediately. The First One had been waiting for this moment for so long. With Sylvan's guidance, he managed to penetrate Sardon's defences. He sensed Sardon's fear as he appeared at Sylvan's side.

<Sylvan is right. This has to stop, Sardon. The balance has been gone for far too long and needs to be restored. Surrender to us, Sardon. No matter how hideous your crimes are, you're still my child and I want to help you. Don't force us to terminate your existence. >

Sardon's reply saddened Lorien immensely.<Surrender? To you? Never!! >

Unleashing his dark power, Sardon sent several jolts of energy their way, only to be smothered by Sylvan's dazzling light before they reached their target; Lorien. Frustrated and alarmed, Sardon focused his attack on the human he hated so much. Dark blasts were released into a different direction.

Neroon strengthened the hold he had on the ranger, he was tiring. They had been running for some time now, trying to get to the surface of the planet. Branmer stopped him, a pleading expression in his eyes.

" Neroon, let me carry Marcus for a while. You are slowing us down."

A burst of energy impacted near them and Neroon realized the Shai Alit was right. Although he didn't want to let go of Marcus, he reluctantly handed the ranger over to Branmer. The older warrior smiled reassuringly." We should hurry."

Briefly confused, Sylvan wondered about his brother's action. A moment later, he realized that the bolt impacted in the middle of the tunnel through which Neroon and Branmer were running. Moving quickly, Sylvan conjured a circle of protective energy around the Minbari. Sensing that Marcus was still unconscious, the First One was concerned he had hurt the human by leaving his soul that abruptly. Determined to check on the ranger and the Minbari later, Sylvan concentrated on Sardon once more. He had to deal with his brother first. Turning to his father, Sylvan made the request he should have made so long ago.

Lorien knew they had to fight and defeat Sardon. Melting his power with Sylvan's, Lorien watched how Sylvan took the initiative in the attack against the Dark One. Their bundled energy took Sardon by surprise. Fighting down the sorrow inside his soul, Sylvan watched his sibling crumble. It reminded him of the moment when Sardon intended to destroy him so long ago. Did Sardon feel the same betrayal as he had experienced? ** No, he doesn't. Only anger and fury emanate from him. **

After he caught his breath Neroon ran after Branmer, always keeping one eye on the ranger. As they emerged from the tunnel, bright sunlight blinded them momentarily. The sight that greeted them stunned Neroon briefly. The tunnel had led them straight to the flyer.

Danzi was standing in front of it, waiting impatiently. " Satai?" Voice filled with disbelief, Danzi struggled to remain calm. Was it really Neroon? His Satai looked so much younger. To see Neroon and Marcus emerge from the tunnel was something he never expected. Danzi had considered exploring the tunnel when some noises attracted his attention, but he had decided against it. He had to be here in case Neroon and Marcus showed up. Now he was glad he hadn't given into his curiosity. Not wasting time, Danzi disappeared into the flyer, preparing for take-off. Another quake shook the surface of the planet and Danzi wondered what was causing these quakes. Only now Danzi realized that an unknown Minbari was carrying the ranger, who was unconscious. Who was he? And why was Marcus unconscious? ** At least Marcus is alive, thank Valen. **

Neroon's voice vibrated through the small flyer as another blast shook the little flyer. " Danzi, we have to leave Zagros 7 as quickly as possible." Feeling strengthened by the fact that they had reached the flyer; Neroon forced himself to take control of the situation. He reclaimed Marcus from Branmer's arms and indicated that the Shai Alit should take the seat next to Danzi. " Branmer, help Danzi pilot the flyer. "

That remark caught Danzi's attention. " Branmer? But he...you died many cycles ago." Staring at the Shai Alit, Danzi recalled seeing a recording and recognised the fabled Minbari warrior. Reverently lowering his eyes, Danzi wondered how it was possible Branmer was alive. It was Neroon who answered him.

" I will explain everything to you Danzi, but later. First we need to retreat to safer grounds." Mentally cursing the fact that there were only 2 chairs, Neroon sat down on the floor in the back of the flyer positioning the unconscious ranger between his legs. Pulling Marcus close to his chest he tried to keep the ranger from getting injured as the flyer bounced from another blast. < Hold on, Marcus. >Not sure whether the ranger could hear him in his current state, Neroon sent him the message repeatedly.

Working together, Danzi and Branmer managed to take the flyer out of Zagros 7's atmosphere. The energy blasts stopped hitting them and Branmer sighed from relief. It had been close this time.

As his power vaporized, the Dark One cried out in rage. Sylvan's light was too strong to deflect; the light overpowered him and he had no more strength to fight back. His energy was gone; only his naked soul remained.

Wavering momentarily, Sylvan reached out for his brother's thoughts. They were of hatred and envy and he flinched back from the evil in Sardon's soul. Lorien's concerned words vibrated through him.

< We can't make the same mistake twice, my child. His darkness must be restrained. He has already upset the balance too much; hurt too many beings. >

<I know, father. > Vividly remembering Marcus' agony, Sylvan was determined to do this right. But still he wished there was a way to turn his brother away from the darkness. Sardon's plea caught him off-guard.

< Forgive me, Sylvan. I repent my crimes, show mercy. >

Eons ago, Sylvan would have believed those words. But now he saw through the deception and lies. The darkness still consumed Sardon. Lorien had called Sardon master of deception and trickery as he warned Neroon before entering his test. Sylvan felt sad as he realized the truth in that warning. <Sardon, I can't believe you. Only hate and coldness fill your soul. The way you tormented Marcus convinced me of your evil. >Sylvan reluctantly approached the now vulnerable soul. The time had come to pass on judgement. Realizing he hadn't been able to fool his brother, Sardon tried to claw a way through the light, but to no avail. <I will afford you the same promise Lorien gave me. Your soul will be reborn into a mortal being and should you find true love you will be redeemed. Though I doubt you'll ever find it. >** And should you find it, you'll no longer be evil but have learned how to love. ** He endured Sardon's enraged cries as his brother heard those words; knowing he was damned for all eternity.

Sardon tried to lash out once more, only to find he lacked the strength for an attack.

Together, father and son watched Sardon's rebirth for the first time. An unexplainable ache filled Sylvan's heart and he wondered why it was there. After all, he had been reunited with Lorien. Why did he feel so sad? The answer to his question came easily. Marcus.

< Sylvan, my son, I missed you. >

The words made him stop his musings momentarily. Reaching out for Lorien, Sylvan sighed in delight at being together once more. The universe quavered the moment the two First Ones restored the balance.< Father, I have to go now, but I will be back. >

< It's the human ranger, Marcus. >

<Yes, I am afraid I damaged him when I regained my freedom. I have to find him. >

<Then go, my son. And return to me quickly. >

Sylvan separated his energy from Lorien's and vanished.

Neroon allowed himself to relax a bit. Marcus' head was resting on his shoulder and the warrior realized he had to get some fluids into the dehydrated ranger. " Danzi, bring me water."

" Of course, Satai."

Hearing that title, Branmer realized that Neroon hadn't told him everything; Neroon had left out telling him about that promotion. Sensing Danzi's stare, the Shai Alit nodded and took control of the flyer, setting out a course that would take them to Minbar.

In an attempt to check for further injuries, Neroon pulled off the ranger's cloak and was relieved to find that the broken leg was the only serious injury. Taking the glass of water from Danzi's hand, Neroon turned Marcus in the embrace so he could look at his face.

" We should have some thermo blankets aboard," Danzi said," Shall I look for them?"

Neroon nodded, thankful for Danzi's thoughtfulness. " Branmer?" Neroon studied the Shai Alit’s facial expression and reached the conclusion that Branmer was relieved as well.

" Yes, Neroon?"

" Scan for Minbari ships called White Stars. You will find the data you need in the computer files and log entries. Marcus needs medical attention. Perhaps there is a White Star close enough to take us to Minbar."

The Shai Alit nodded his approval and began the scan.

Concentrating on the human in his arms, Neroon dipped his fingers in the water and moistened the ranger's chapped lips. He closely observed Marcus' face.

Lost in the labyrinth of his own mind, Marcus heard a gentle voice call out for him. The ranger tried to answer that voice, but was shocked to discover that he no longer knew how to send a reply. A stabbing pain had moved through him, as Sylvan's soul violently broke loose from his. The separation had left behind a startling emptiness in his mind, which he couldn’t cope with, on his own.

< Marcus? Can you hear me? Answer me. >

Once more the ranger tried to reply, but an unknown barrier stopped him. Panic surged through him; he felt isolated. He desperately wanted to answer that gentle voice even though he wasn't sure whom that voice belonged to. It sounded like Neroon, but that was impossible. He had watched Neroon die after the warrior had saved his life. An odd sensation made him tremble. A cool liquid was dripped onto his lips, making him aware how much he yearned for a drink. Marcus wondered whether or not he had enough strength to open his eyes, but succeeded in the end. The glass filled with the precious liquid was all he saw, was all that mattered. Hands shaking, he tried to grab it from the strong fingers holding it. The only sound he was capable of making was whimpering. Moaning pleadingly, he begged for more.

" Calm down, Marcus. You'll spill it. Let me help you."

That voice! That soft, sensual voice reverberated through him...Neroon? Was he hallucinating now? Having visions of the warrior? Was he that close to death? The thought was pushed to the back of his mind as the glass with water was pressed against his lips once more. Marcus wanted to drown it all in one go, but Neroon only allowed him small sips. Marcus' hands dropped to his lap, all strength deserted him.

Observing the ranger closely, Neroon sensed the overwhelming thirst in Marcus. He thanked Valen the ranger had woken. <Slowly, Marcus. You're safe now. Sardon can't hurt you any longer. > Why wasn't Marcus answering him telepathically? Neroon had grown accustomed to hearing Marcus in his head and the silence worried him. Reaching out another time, he sent the message again, but the silence remained. The warrior suddenly realized that the ranger appeared to be in pain; whispering pleadingly only incoherent sounds left his lips. Were his attempts to reach Marcus telepathically causing the ranger pain? It was the only logical explanation Neroon could come up with. Suddenly, he remembered Sylvan's words; the First One had been concerned he had hurt Marcus leaving his soul so abruptly. Neroon withdrew from his lover's mind and focused instead on the stunned expression in the green eyes staring at him. ** My lover, Marcus, I almost lost you. **

" Ne...roon."

The broken tone in that word made Neroon ache inside. " Yes, I am here, Marcus."

" Wa...ter?"

Neroon considered the request. The ranger had emptied one glass already. Within seconds, Danzi filled the glass again and handed it back to Neroon. Placing the glass at Marcus' lips, Neroon made sure the ranger sipped slowly. Tremors shook Marcus' fragile frame and the warrior instinctively tightened the embrace. Now that the second glass was empty as well, the ranger looked at him; wanting more. " Try to get some sleep, Marcus."

Marcus' answer bore right through his soul.

" You...are dead...I watched you die..."

Soothingly stroking the black hair, Neroon was about to reply when Branmer interrupted him.

" I am receiving a reply from White Star One."

" Put it through." Hope filled Neroon. All White Stars were equipped with a medical facility. Concentrating on Marcus again made Neroon aware of the fact that the ranger had slipped into sleep. Beckoning Danzi to take his place, Neroon carefully released Marcus from his embrace and rose to his feet.

A wavering expression lay in Danzi's eyes as he enveloped the ranger in his arms, sitting down behind him. This felt unbelievably intimate to Danzi and he was honored that Neroon asked him to take his place. Wrapping one of the thermo blankets he had found around the still form in his arms, the young warrior listened to Marcus' regular breathing.

" Make sure he's warm, Danzi."

Nodding, Danzi felt the cold skin beneath his hands and realized that the ranger had been to hell and back.

" This is White Star One. Minbari flyer identify yourself."

Sitting down next to Branmer, Neroon replied in person to the ranger handling the communication between the two ships.

" This is flyer Shanar requesting permission to come aboard White Star One. We have an injured ranger onboard who needs medical treatment." Secretly praying to Valen, Neroon hoped the White Star would permit them to come aboard. Casting a glance over his shoulder, he studied Marcus and realized the Ranger was still in a critical condition. Neroon saw the somewhat baffled expression in Danzi's eyes. The young warrior was a bit uncomfortable being forced into this kind of intimate contact with the ranger. Neroon knew Danzi was afraid he was crossing a line here, but he trusted Danzi completely. Not expecting the small screen to flash to visual, Neroon was stunned to recognise the Minbari onboard White Star One." Lennier?"

" Neroon? Is that you? You look different...and that wounded ranger you mentioned? Is it Marcus?"

" Yes."

" I will alert the physician. Come aboard as quickly as possible."

PART 12

Lennier desperately tried to hold onto his composure. After alerting the human doctor onboard, he headed towards the bridge. The young Minbari thought it wise to inform Delenn personally that Marcus and Neroon were coming aboard.

Seated on the bridge, Delenn felt content. This far their trip had been without incidents and she hoped it would stay that way. Some days ago she had accepted an invitation to attend a Rebirth Ceremony to be held in Tuzanor. Master Durhann had asked her to attend the ceremony to strengthen the rangers' morale. Being Ranger One, she intended to live up to her responsibilities. Not expecting to see Lennier on the bridge, she rose to her feet. His brow was furrowed as if something was troubling him. What was wrong? The worried expression in his eyes surprised her; normally he masked his emotions quite well.

" Delenn, I received a message some minutes ago. Neroon has asked permission to come aboard. Apparently Marcus is injured and needs medical treatment. The doctor is already on his way to meet them."

" Well done, Lennier." Wondering what Marcus and Neroon were doing out here, she tried not to show her concern too openly. It wasn't that long ago that the ranger had been badly wounded and now he had been injured again? " I want to talk to them." She turned and addressed a ranger close to her, telling him to hold their course and contact her in case something extraordinary occurred. " Let us not waste any more time, Lennier. I am worried about Marcus."

Carrying the sleeping ranger himself, Neroon walked towards the doctor who was already waiting for them. The warrior was surprised to recognise the physician. It was Edwards, the doctor who had taken care of Marcus' wounds once before. His surprise was reflected on Edward's face as the doctor realized who his patient was." Doctor Edwards?"

" We meet again, Satai."

Neroon nodded and carefully placed the body of the sleeping ranger on the gurney. " His leg is broken and he's dehydrated. He managed to drink two glasses of water."

Edwards beckoned an assistant to help him push the gurney. " I will take good care of him, Satai."

" Thank you." Watching them leave, Neroon knew Marcus was in capable hands. Barely resisting the urge to follow the doctor, Neroon told himself that Edwards needed to work on the ranger; his presence would only distract the physician. He would check on him later. The tortured expression in Marcus' eyes continued to haunt him. As he saw Lennier and Delenn approach him, Neroon realized that he had a lot of explaining to do and he wasn't looking forward to that. Lennier had informed him that the White Star was taking Delenn to Minbar and the warrior felt a bit apprehensive about talking to her. What could he tell her? That First Ones were involved? Would she believe him? Did he have to tell her everything? Suddenly, Neroon realized something else. What would happen should Branmer discover how he and Delenn had quarrelled over the Shai Alit’s remains? The pain he had felt when Branmer had died had never left him. Losing his first love had made him more emotional than he used to be. That pain had made him go against Branmer's wishes. Neroon himself had led the procession that had brought Branmer's dead body to Babylon 5. To honor the Shai Alit, Neroon wanted to display the dead body on Babylon 5 and at every Minbari enclave from there to Minbar. He remembered his fury as he discovered that Delenn had taken the dead body after he had wasted a lot of time searching for it. When he found out that she had it secretly cremated his fury had almost taken him over the edge. Delenn told him that as a former priest, Branmer's ashes had been scattered in space near Minbar, in accordance with his wishes. Looking back now Neroon realized that his actions, which had been caused by hurt and grief, had almost resulted in another war because he had blamed the humans for the disappearance of the body. Anger had almost overwhelmed him when Delenn ordered him to support her story that Branmer had been transformed so he could take his place with the gods. Reluctantly, he had given into her demands. He had loved Branmer and couldn't help being enraged by Delenn's actions. He hadn't wanted to stain the Shai Alit’s memory by acting dishonorably so he had supported Delenn's story. Even after all these cycles, after having found the love of his life, the hurt was still a part of him. Neroon trembled as he realized that Branmer was bound to find out about their differences of opinion; how would he react once the Shai Alit found out that his second in command had gone against his wishes? Feeling more uncomfortable with every passing second, Neroon was afraid to discover what that reaction would be. Perhaps he could explain to Branmer about the agony and the rage he had been in.

" Neroon? Can you hear me?"

Caught up in his worries he had almost forgotten about Delenn and her aide. Maybe there was still enough time left to warn her. That hope was shattered as Neroon heard voices coming from behind him; Danzi and Branmer. He had to act quickly now. Turning to face her, Neroon watched her eyes take on a startled expression. " Delenn, there is something I need to tell you." A flash of foreboding shot through Neroon as he saw Delenn's pupils dilate as she got a good look at his face.

" In Valen's name, what happened to you Neroon?"

Momentarily stunned, he tried to find words to answer her question, but where to start?" Delenn, there are so many things I have to tell you, but first I want you to know there is someone..." Neroon was cut short as Branmer appeared next to him. The Shai Alit raised a hand, telling him to be quiet. Neroon obeyed and took a step back. His heart was pounding in his throat. Would Branmer condemn him for the poor way he had handled the Minbari's funeral? Something deep inside him told him to stop worrying. The Shai Alit would forgive him.

" Delenn? You are no longer fully Minbari? This is the strangest sight I have ever seen. The hair, the shape of your face, everything has changed. It seems there is much we need to talk about."

Startled, Delenn stared into Branmer's eyes. ** Branmer? How is this possible? **

" Is it really you? Branmer?"

" Yes. Why, you look like you have seen a ghost, Delenn."

** You must be a ghost...** Delenn tried to calm down. To see Branmer alive after all this time shocked her. Looking at Neroon, Delenn saw an odd mixture of fear and joy on his face. ** Does Branmer know he died long ago? ** She decided not to bring up a conversation concerning that matter. And why did Neroon look as young as he had been when he had served Branmer on the Ingata? " Branmer, I welcome you. Although I must confess I am confused to see you here."

Sensing Branmer's eyes on him, Neroon wondered how to get out of this awkward situation. He better started explaining some things. " Marcus.... became the target of a First One some weeks ago. This First One is responsible for his injuries and for Branmer's return."

The Shai Alit shot him an inquisitive look. It was fairly obvious Neroon wanted to keep some things secret. The expression in Neroon's eyes was worried and Branmer knew the reason why.

" Neroon, why don't you go and find Marcus? We can talk later." Curious, Delenn walked over to Branmer as if to make certain that he was actually there.

" Yes, Neroon. I am sure you are anxious to find out how he is doing."

Realizing that refusing wouldn't help him, Neroon bowed slightly and left. He felt Branmer's eyes still on him. ** I will deal with Branmer and Delenn later. I need to know how Marcus is doing. **

A kind smile appeared on Branmer's face. Looking Delenn in the eyes, he whispered to her. " Tell me, what did Neroon do? Guilt is written all over his face...."

Long moments later Delenn and Branmer were trying to come to terms with the news they had told each other. Delenn had informed Branmer of Neroon's actions after he had died. ** Why am I surprised? I was his first lover; I should have known he would do something like that. ** It took Branmer some time to deal with this information, but he realized there were things he needed to tell Delenn as well. Watching her eyes, he proceeded to tell her about the eternal battle between Sylvan and Sardon and what Marcus' involvement was.

Delenn was trying her best to understand the role Marcus played in this fight between good and evil. ** So that is how he got injured and why Neroon's appearance has changed. ** The silence between them became uncomfortable and Delenn was the first to speak. " Perhaps we should talk to Marcus and Neroon about all this."

Branmer nodded. There were some questions left he needed answered.

" You can come inside, Satai. Marcus is still asleep."

Scanning the room with his eyes, Neroon pulled up a chair and sat down beside Marcus' bed. The ranger was wearing a med gown and his leg had been put in a cast. Several IV's were attached to his hand, but Neroon had to admit Marcus was looking a bit better. The paleness was diminishing and his lips were curled in a hesitant smile. Taking the ranger's hand in his own he rubbed the soft flesh with his fingertips, staring at the Jogmanar. He had come so terribly close to losing Marcus. The mere fact that he was able to look at the ranger, hold his hand, watch him breathe, made Neroon aware of Marcus' fragile beauty. Even now, a baffling innocence clung to the ranger. Edward's voice interrupted his thoughts and he focused on the doctor.

" Marcus will be all right, Satai. His broken leg will heal just fine in time and the IV's are supplying him with all the fluids he needs. I expect him to wake up any moment now. You can stay if you want to be here when he wakes."

" I would like that. I will stay." A wave of relief coursed through Neroon hearing that news. He had been worried about Marcus. Hearing the doctor retreat to his office, Neroon stroked some strands of hair back from the ranger's face. Just in time he remembered not to contact Marcus telepathically. He wasn't sure the telepathic contact caused the ranger pain, but he wasn't going to take that risk. " Marcus? I am here. We are aboard a White Star, which will take us home. I wished you would wake up, Marcus. I need you." Caressing the ranger's face, Neroon wondered how badly damaged Marcus was due to Sylvan leaving his soul like that. The physical wounds would heal, but.... Neroon forced himself not to give up that quickly. He had closed his eyes momentarily, but opened them as he sensed movement beneath his hands. The ranger stirred, was about to wake up. Neroon moved to sit on the edge of the bed and waited impatiently for Marcus to open his eyes. " Wake up, Marcus...Please."

A moan left Marcus' lips and Neroon grew faintly hopeful. Addressing the ranger in a louder voice, Neroon also gently shook Marcus' shoulders. An irrational fear clawed its way through him; he had to look into the ranger's eyes, to talk to him. As Marcus' eyes fluttered open, Neroon felt a single tear break free from his eyes. Leaning in, Neroon stared into those green eyes he loved so much. There was a startled expression in them and Neroon knew why it was there. Marcus had watched him die. " It's all right, Marcus. Sylvan gave me back my life. It's me..." An awkward silence passed as Neroon waited for Marcus to deal with the information.

Marcus didn't know what to do. He had witnessed Neroon's death, but he did remember Neroon making him drink some water in the flyer. To him, everything that had happened lately seemed like a bad dream and he felt a prisoner of that nightmare. Now that Sylvan had left him, he felt empty; he missed the First One who had been a part of him. But Neroon was here, stroking his fingers, a hand tangled in his hair. The ranger looked into the warrior's eyes and saw the happiness in them. Yes, Neroon was here and everything would be fine in the end. The warrior would take care of everything. Twining his own fingers with Neroon's, the ranger sighed. A feeling of bliss and love filled him and he knew Neroon was the source of those emotions. " Neroon. I thought I had lost you like all others I once cared for."

" I am here." Searching for the right words, that small sentence was the only thing that came to mind.

" You came back from the dead..."

" I came back for you, Marcus." A blush spread over the ranger's face and made Neroon smile. He loved seeing Marcus flustered. It made him want to kiss those lips and run his fingers over his face, caressing that delicately blushing skin.

" I love you, Neroon."

Leaning in closer, the warrior softly brushed Marcus' lips; teasing the ranger a little. Curious for Marcus' reaction, Neroon studied the ranger's face. He didn't expect Marcus to grab his face with both his hands. The ranger pulled him down again and proceeded to kiss him passionately. Neroon indulged his lover's wish and returned the kiss in the same intense way. Then concern surfaced and Neroon drew back. Taking the ranger's hands he forced Marcus to lower them. " Be careful not to pull out the IV's."

Softly admonishing his lover, Neroon crooked his head and tried to gauge Marcus' state of mind. The ranger had once told him that everyone he cared for had died. ** Even I died ...but I did it for you, Marcus. The thought that Sardon would succeed in killing you was more than I could bear. **

Marcus was having similar thoughts. Neroon had died so he could live. The ranger had revolted against it, but in the end he had given into the warrior's plea to allow him to sacrifice his life. In that moment he had seen the truth. Hasina, William, they had been destined to die; like he had been destined to live, to be the sole survivor.... Knowing the reason why they had to die didn't make the pain less, but it took away some of his fear. Sylvan was no longer part of him and the trials were over now. ** And Neroon is here, alive and well. ** The ranger felt lost as he stared into Neroon's dark eyes. He was desperate to feel the Minbari's warm skin against his. Cherishing his lover's caresses, Marcus relaxed.

" I tried contacting you telepathically, but you didn't answer. Is there something wrong?" It had been during their separation that Neroon realized that he was suddenly capable of sending messages to the ranger and until now he never wondered why he suddenly possessed that ability. He figured Marcus being a telepath made it possible. But now the ranger seemed incapable of answering him.

" I don't know...I tried answering your calls, but there is a barrier that I can't cross.... I am afraid we will have to go back to plain talking." Thinking about that barrier brought back the feeling of loneliness. Marcus tried to hide his sorrow, but realized Neroon was already picking it up.

" You miss Sylvan, don't you?"

" Yes, I do...I feel incomplete...I don't want to hurt your feelings, Neroon...You are all I need, I love you, but Sylvan was part of my soul."

" Marcus, you can share your pain with me. I can still feel your emotions. Perhaps it helps."

As Marcus' feelings of abandonment washed through him, Neroon desperately tried to hold on to his love for the ranger. The emotions coming from Marcus were powerful. It was as the ranger had told him; he missed a part of his soul. " I understand, Marcus, never fear. We'll deal with this together."

" Hold me?"

The request surprised the warrior. There was a new vulnerability to Marcus, which Neroon had never noticed before.

" I will hold you, Marcus."

Seeing Marcus' eyes beginning to water, Neroon pulled him closer, enveloping the ranger in his arms. Neroon wished he knew of a way to help the man he loved, but how to replace a part of ones soul? Neroon saw the embarrassed and scared expression in Marcus' eyes. The ranger was afraid to offend him; to hurt his feelings. Feeling his lover's pain, the warrior realized that Sylvan had damaged Marcus indeed.

It didn't take Sylvan long to locate Marcus. The tendrils of his mind told him where to find the ranger. Not wanting to scare the human or the other people onboard, Sylvan cloaked himself in invisibility. Moving through the hull of the ship and walls, he found the human at last. Tentatively examining the ranger's mind, Sylvan was sad to find that he had hurt Marcus tremendously by tearing apart from him so violently. There was a gaping wound in the ranger's soul. The First One realized that he was the only one who could heal the agony Marcus was in. It was the least he could do to repay the human and his lover.

During their walk to the medical facility they remained quiet. Delenn wondered what implications Neroon's unselfish act was going to have on the universe now Sylvan was free once more. As they entered the room in which Marcus was resting, both Minbari froze. They felt like intruders, seeing the intimate scene between Neroon and the ranger. About to leave unnoticed, Delenn caught sight of a dazzling light that penetrated the walls. It grew until it was almost too bright to look at. It was Branmer's whisper, which offered her an explanation.

" I think it is Sylvan."

Resting his back against the headboard Neroon nuzzled his lover's neck. Marcus trembled and the warrior felt fiercely protective of the ranger. Neither one of them expected to see a blinding light enter the room, appearing out of nowhere. Instinctively knowing it was Sylvan, Marcus sat up, trying to free himself of Neroon's arms. He desperately tried to get closer to the light. Neroon grabbed hold of Marcus and pulled him gently back into his arms; afraid the ranger would pull out the IV's. He heard Marcus whisper the First One's name.

Branmer and Delenn stood in the doorway, still unnoticed by Neroon and Marcus.

This part contains nc-17 sections; slash.

An immense bliss filled Marcus knowing Sylvan this close to him. Realizing Neroon was holding him back, holding him pinned to the bed made him struggle to break free. The Minbari was much stronger and the ranger moaned his disappointment.

It hurt Neroon to be the one restraining Marcus, but he was worried the IV's would be ripped out of the ranger's hand. From the corner of his eye, he caught sight of Delenn and Branmer; wonder on their faces.

" Marcus, Neroon, I have come back to help you." A soft, vibrating voice floated through the room. Sylvan realized that the best thing for all of them would be to see him in a solid form. Within seconds he moulded his energy into a human body; an exact copy of the ranger's. It was a strange experience for the First One to move his fingers, to open and close his eyes. A bit surprised at how it felt to have a solid body after all these eons, he ran his fingertips over his face feeling the coarse hair of the beard.

Neroon's eyes were big and filled with disbelief as he saw this perfect replica of his lover. Marcus had stopped fighting him, had gone completely still. The warrior felt the despair inside his mind. Marcus wanted to fling himself at Sylvan; to melt into him, to be once more part of the First One.

Sylvan raised his right arm and extended it towards Marcus, reaching out for him. A smile appeared on the First One's face as his fingers interlaced with those of Marcus. Enraptured, Marcus caressed the fingers in his hand. The ecstasy of actually being able to touch Sylvan enthralled the ranger.

Concerned, Neroon gazed at Marcus' face; eyes full of unspoken ecstasy. It hurt the Minbari to see Marcus react in this way to the First One's presence.

The First One returned the caress, aware of the fact that he was the only one who could fill the emptiness in Marcus' mind. He had been the one who created it in the first place. Sending Marcus some reassurance Sylvan sensed Neroon's sadness. As he locked eyes with the warrior, he knew Neroon was afraid to lose his lover to the First One. The universe seemed to consist only of the three of them as the Sylvan concentrated on the task at hand. " Neroon? It is as I feared. I hurt Marcus when I left his soul. The wound is deep; he's in pain...but I can mend the gaping hole in his soul."

Neroon made his decision without hesitation. " Help him. Take away his pain."

" I will."

Mentally wincing from an irrational emotional pain, Neroon felt like his own soul was being torn apart at this very moment. He wanted to be the most important person in Marcus' life, but now it was Sylvan Marcus needed most. It hurt tremendously. He forced himself to let go of the human in his arms and while getting up from the bed, Marcus' expression haunted him. Even now, he saw the devouring hunger in his lover's eyes. Jealousy reared its ugly head and Neroon tried besting it. He succeeded for the moment; telling himself Marcus' connection with Sylvan was something the ranger needed.

< Don't be jealous, Neroon. You should know by now that he only wants you. He leapt off that ridge to save you; even if that meant killing himself and me. Marcus can't help being drawn to me; I was part of his soul. Have faith, Neroon. >

< I know you are speaking the truth Sylvan, but it still hurts. >

Focusing his attention on the human, Sylvan was determined to heal Marcus' hurt. Easing the ranger back onto the bed, the First One discovered he liked being in a solid body. Being able to touch someone was a remarkable sensation; he could get used to. Marcus' green eyes were looking up at him, trusting him to take away the pain. " Yes, Marcus. That is good, open your mind to me." Placing his hands on the ranger's chest, Sylvan tried to be as gentle as possible as he re-entered Marcus' soul, attempting to rebuild the torn fragments of the human's soul. There was only one way to help the ranger; it meant sacrificing a little of himself. After the First One established the soul-link, he allowed a tiny part of his energy to leave his fingertips and flow into the ranger's body. A soft glow encircled the ranger's body before it disappeared into Marcus' body.

The ranger had closed his eyes, feeling Sylvan's hands on his chest. He felt safe and warm; the dark gap in his soul had become unimportant now the First One was with him. As Sylvan's light pulsated through his body, the warmth spread into every cell of his being. It made him sleepy, pleasantly tired and he surrendered to the warmth. As a part of Sylvan's energy -- soul-- nestled itself deep within the ranger, Marcus became whole again. The First One had no idea how this was going to affect the human in the long run. ** Human? He's no longer completely human; there is a part of me inside him now. **

The First One worked a little longer on healing the physical and emotional wounds the ranger had suffered during his life. Sylvan realized that the trials had been extremely hard for Marcus. There was a dark pain inside the ranger that he wanted to heal as well. Sardon had left something of his darkness inside Marcus; a darkness that was born out of painful memories. Searching Marcus' mind, Sylvan found the core of this pain; the brutal rapes, Neroon losing his memory...His light drove away the darkness, leaving a soothing sparkle of energy behind. ** No more nightmares, Marcus. No more pain. You suffered too much. ** The raw pain inside the human was something Sylvan couldn't bear. Slowly, he took away the sharp edges of that agony, not touching the memories. Those he left intact. Sighing, Sylvan was relieved his work here was done. The ranger's soul was whole again and he had taken away the pain.

Awed, Neroon had watched how the golden energy had coursed through the ranger. For one second Marcus' body had consisted of dazzling light. As the light faded, Neroon noticed that the cast was gone and the ranger was no longer attached to the IV's. They had fallen onto the floor. The bruises on his body had vanished and a healthy color spread on Marcus' face. Embarrassed, the warrior realized he was trembling with emotion. As Sylvan retreated from the ranger some light flowed back into the First One, but a fragment remained behind in Marcus. Studying the ranger, Neroon saw the closed eyes, heard the regular breathing and was relieved to see the relaxed expression on Marcus' face. He was soundly asleep. A bit startled, Neroon forced himself to remain calm as Sylvan approached him. Feeling cornered, the warrior had no other choice than to face the powerful First One. The mere fact that Sylvan was using Marcus' appearance made him uncomfortable.

" I had to give him part of my soul; the damage was too severe. There was no other way for me to heal him. But a warning is in place; I don't know how and if this will change Marcus. He is no longer fully human, but partly First One. I think it will have definitely strengthened his telepathic ability, just be careful." Sylvan paused; giving Neroon the time he needed to deal with this information.

" What about you, Neroon? Sardon altered your appearance and age. Do you want to stay like this or not?"

Not expecting that question, the warrior wavered. This younger body had served him very well and he had gotten used to its strength and agility. The First One noticed his hesitance.

" I don't know if I should tell you this, but Marcus thinks you're even more attractive now."

" He does?"

A chuckle escaped Sylvan's lips. Shrugging his shoulders, the First One tried to look innocent, enjoying Neroon's embarrassment.

" Then I will stay the way I am now. If Marcus likes it."

" A wise decision, Neroon."

The Minbari took a step closer to Marcus' bed.

" Can I touch him?"

Sylvan nodded. He was no longer needed here. He only needed to do one more thing; return Branmer to his own time. Then he would return to Lorien. " I will leave now. Should you ever need me, I will find you." While he spoke those words of promise, his solid form began to fall apart, losing its coherency until there was nothing left of the First One.

Slipping his fingers into Marcus' hand, Neroon fingered the metal of the Jogmanar. Touching Marcus' skin told him that the ranger wasn't cold any longer. The soft skin was warm and a smile appeared on his face. Feeling a bit insecure Neroon waited for the ranger to wake up and open his eyes. He heard the door close behind him and only now he realized that Delenn and Branmer had seen everything.

Marcus felt cosy, warm, cherished; no longer in any pain. His soul was whole, complete, again. Opening his eyes, his heart missed a beat staring into Neroon's surprisingly wavering eyes.

Feeling strangely hypnotized, Neroon couldn't tear away from Marcus' eyes; those EYES!! His breath caught; the eyes were no longer green. The green color had been replaced by a golden glow. Sylvan's light was present in those eyes; a reminder of what had happened. Swallowing hard, Neroon wondered if other aspects of the ranger had changed as well. The First One had hinted there might be some changes that would surface in time.

" Neroon."

A single word fled the ranger's lips and seemed to caress his very own soul. Neroon gasped at its intensity. It reverberated through him.

No longer connected to the IV's or hindered by his injuries, Marcus raised his hands, reaching out for the Minbari. Resting his hands on Neroon's shoulders, the ranger pulled himself into a sitting position. There was a determined expression in those golden eyes Neroon had never seen there before and it briefly startled the warrior. The ranger forced him to lower his face so Marcus could claim his lips. This aggressive side to Marcus was new to the warrior and he wasn't certain how to react. As Marcus pulled him closer, Neroon parted his teeth willingly as Marcus' tongue sought entry. It felt like the ranger wanted to devour him completely. Giving into his lover's eagerness, the warrior was overwhelmed by the intense feelings Marcus was arousing in him. The ranger forced him to sit down on the bed; Marcus had a firm hold on him. < I love you, Neroon. >

The message hit Neroon unprepared. His every doubt vanished; he had been a fool to be jealous of Sylvan. Savoring Marcus' fingers on his skin, Neroon was baffled when the ranger pushed him onto his back to straddle his hips. He definitely liked Marcus' aggressiveness. A smouldering fire burned in his lover's eyes. It was strange to look into golden eyes. " Marcus!" He intended to whisper the name only softly, but it came out as a growl of desire. They both felt the desperate need to become one.

Stealing his hands beneath Neroon's clothes, the skin seemed to burn his fingertips. His own passion stunned the ranger briefly. A rational, detached, part of his mind looked at his actions and wondered about them. He no longer felt inhibited; no horrid memories of the rapes were haunting him and he was delighted to see his own passionate fire reflected in the warrior's eyes. Normally Neroon was the one to instigate their lovemaking. It appeared the Minbari didn't mind him taking the initiative now, even seemed to welcome it. To feel, to see the warrior surrender to him, made Marcus quiver with desire. " I think Sylvan healed more than just the wound he left behind. I am no longer seeing images of the rapes, Neroon. I feel afire, burning...."

" I love seeing that fire in you, Marcus."

An amused, somewhat naughty smile showed on the ranger's face. " You do? Never thought you wanted me to be aggressive...Want me on top, Neroon? Riding you?"

Neroon's roaring laughter filled the room, killing that last bit of fear clinging to them after everything they had been through." You have been on top before, Marcus and yes...I like it when you are on top...riding me as you like to call it."

A mischievous expression stole into Marcus' eyes hearing that confession. He vividly remembered the first time he had been on top. " We ended up making quite a mess that time, especially when you carried me to that desk of yours...." The ranger was laughing warmly. Neroon relished their friendly bantering. Some moments later, Marcus became serious." Neroon, you know I only want to be with you. Yet you were jealous of Sylvan.... I think I should be flattered...But I missed you. I need you, Neroon, I want you.... body and soul."

The words, the demand, touched something deep within Neroon's soul. Caressing Marcus' soft skin, the warrior watched how the ranger closed his eyes, savoring the caress. A passionate fire was burning him and need was quickly building inside the warrior. He was thankful to Sylvan for healing his lover and he couldn't help making his next remark. Neroon wanted to take advantage of the aggressiveness Marcus was displaying at the moment." You want to take me, Marcus? What are you waiting for...?" "

A chuckle was clearly heard in his words.

" Are you challenging me, Neroon?"

The warrior grinned. They were treading on new grounds now their roles were reversed. Neroon liked the fact that Marcus was the dominant one this time; he liked it a lot.

" No challenge, Marcus. Just curious to find out what your plans are."

Bending down, Marcus managed to do away with Neroon's shirt. Exposing that magnificent chest made him eager to run his fingers over the hot skin. Slowly and deliberately moving his hands over the powerful chest, Marcus couldn't resist pinching one of the already hard nipples. A seductive moan was his reward and he wondered what kind of noise the warrior would make should he run the Jogmanar over Neroon's abdomen. The tip of the Jogmanar barely touched the warrior's skin, but made him whimper nonetheless. Demanding dark eyes were staring into his and Marcus realized how badly Neroon wanted him. He felt it in the warrior's mind.

" Now, don't make me wait too long, Marcus. What ever you want to do, do it now!"

No longer able to hide his mirth, Marcus laughed warmly." Getting impatient, Neroon? It appears I am not the only one who should work on that flaw."

Neroon remembered teasing Marcus with his impatience. Marcus' leg sensually rubbed against his erection and for a moment the warrior thought he was going to come with his trousers still on. What was that word Marcus sometimes used?" You are a tease, Marcus."

" I know, but I love seeing that impatient desire in your eyes." Sensing his lover's need, Marcus' eyes searched the room. He suddenly realized they were still in the medical facility. The thrill of getting caught in the act aroused Marcus even more and he gasped as he surged into hardness. His eyes rested on an armchair, standing in a corner of the room.

Sensing his idea, the warrior chuckled. Marcus never ceased to amaze him. " The chair?"

Nodding, Marcus moved off of him and managed to pull the warrior towards the chair. " Sit down." Growing impatient himself, the ranger tried to force Neroon to sit down, but the Minbari stood firm as a rock, unmoveable; grinning wickedly." Neroon!"

Marcus returned the grin, knowing Neroon was getting back at him for the earlier teasing. ** I can play that game as well. ** Sliding his hands down into Neroon's trousers, he wasn't surprised to find Neroon fully erect; hard and demanding release. Curling his fingers around Neroon's shaft, the ranger relished seeing the want in his lover's dark eyes. Pulling Neroon's trousers and underwear down, he sighed at the glorious sight in front of him. Once more he tried to get the warrior to sit down in the armchair.

Amused, Neroon stepped out of his trousers and gave into his lover; sitting down at last. " Are you going to wear all those clothes, ranger? They might get in the way.... or I might be forced to rip them off your body."

" Bugger..." The ranger had been admiring the Neroon's body; all muscle, the suppleness of youth. Even stark naked there was an air of power and pride about the Minbari that made him lick his lips. He knew he was trembling. The warrior was absolutely breathtaking. His mouth began to water and he realized Neroon was waiting for him to take the initiative.

Hearing Marcus' thoughts, Neroon felt flattered. Watching the ranger dispose of his tunic and turtleneck, Neroon didn't hide the admiring look in his eyes, as he seemed to devour his lover with his eyes alone. He noticed the bulge in Marcus' trousers and smiled. Refraining from talking, the warrior sent him a message instead. <Lose those trousers very quickly or I WILL tear them to shreds. I warned you not to keep me waiting too long. >

Realizing Neroon was serious the ranger unzipped his trousers, getting rid of the last pieces of clothing as quickly as possible.

You are exquisite, Marcus."

A fiery blush appeared on the ranger's face and much to Neroon's delight it began to spread over some other parts of Marcus' lean body as well. Sighing appreciatively, Neroon watched Marcus take a step closer to him. He knew the ranger was pondering his options." I am waiting."

Now you are teasing me, Neroon. You are making me nervous." Wavering for one moment, Marcus straddled his lover's hips once more. His legs dangled down on either side of the Minbari. Concentration and unconditional love showed on his face as he manoeuvred himself atop of the warrior's erection. Placing his hands on Neroon's shoulders, he looked his lover in the eyes, lowering himself onto the slick shaft.

Marcus..." The ranger's choice surprised the warrior. He didn't expect to slide into his lover this easily. He had assumed Marcus wanted to take him, penetrate him, but this bittersweet ecstasy was even better. Embracing the ranger tightly Neroon steadied his lover, keeping him balanced.

" I love feeling you deep inside me, Neroon. You feel like a part of me at times like these." Sensing hot hands burning his back, Marcus forced Neroon to part his teeth and plunged his tongue into his lover's mouth. He knew the warrior liked him being a little aggressive. Marcus pushed down his hips, impaling himself even further, taking him in completely. The warrior was getting desperate for Marcus to move. Going crazy with desire and want, Neroon couldn't hold back any longer and began thrusting upwards in a slow but maddening rhythm. He had to be careful not to use too much force; he wasn't quite used to this young, more powerful body yet.

A beautiful low moan eluded Marcus' lips and Neroon licked, suckled Marcus' nipples. As the ranger arched against him in animalistic want, the warrior froze for one second to study his lover. Marcus had thrown his head back, the black hair plastered to his brow from the sweat that was forming on his body. Thrusting once more, Neroon groaned, feeling Marcus pushing himself down onto his shaft, gripping him tightly inside. Panting heavily, Neroon grabbed his lover's face in his hands and licked the insides of his lover's sweet lips. Their passion was taking both of them over the edge very quickly.

Neroon's body tensed and he knew that it was impossible to hold back his release much longer. He was going to come within seconds if Marcus kept clenching him like that.

Words were inadequate and became unnecessary as their minds briefly melted into one. Thrusting wildly into his lover, Neroon felt Marcus trembling and he wrapped his arms around him once more. Seeing the ranger abandoned like this made him lose control. The warrior couldn't hold back any longer, moaning his ecstasy as he filled his lover with his come.

Gasping, panting, not sure where his mind ended and Neroon's began, Marcus screamed as the warrior's semen shot into him. The ranger was afraid he would drown in Neroon's sensations, as they became a part of him. Experiencing the sheer orgasmic force, which vibrated through his mind and body, made Marcus come as well. Lost in Neroon's and his own emotions, Marcus wondered how he was ever going to sort them out again. Realizing sorting them out was impossible now; he surrendered to the intense feelings as orgasm took him. He didn't see the rapture in Neroon's eyes as the warrior stared at him; gasping as well as he felt the overwhelming feelings inside the ranger's mind.

It was the most gorgeous sight Neroon had ever witnessed. As Marcus spasmed in his arms, he tried to burn this moment in time into his mind. He wanted to memorize every line on Marcus' brow, knitted in surrender. Eyes closed, mouth open, panting heavily, hips moving frantically before going completely still. Sweat covered his body and the warrior noticed the ranger had bit his lip; a drop of blood threatened to fall down. He quickly kissed it away. Feeling Marcus' creamy come drip from his belly, Neroon changed the nature of the kiss; it became demanding and a bit possessive. Now it was Marcus who surrendered; utterly drained; yet completely satiated.

Opening his eyes at last, Marcus saw the openly admiring, adoring expression in the Minbari's eyes. His face became flushed as he remembered how bold he had been during their lovemaking. He allowed the warrior to lift him off his hips, feeling a sharp loss as Neroon slipped out of him.

Helping Marcus back to his feet, a moment of intense silence passed as both men tried to compose themselves. It was difficult to sort out which thoughts and emotions belonged to whom. Neroon ran the tip of the Jogmanar teasingly over Marcus' belly making the ranger shiver, his skin sensitive in post orgasmic ecstasy. His own voice trembled as he felt confident enough to speak." We better clean up and get dressed before we are caught after all, Marcus."

PART 14

Sylvan found Branmer sitting opposite of Delenn, deeply involved in a discussion. The First One had once more assumed Marcus' appearance. Slowly, he approached the two Minbari, not sure what to do. It was Delenn who took the first step.

" Sylvan?" Delenn rose to her feet, hearing the tremor in her own voice; not sure she was facing Marcus or the First One.

" Yes, I am here to return Branmer to his own time. He can't stay here."

A melancholy smile appeared on Branmer's face. For some reason he wished he could stay here in this time, but he realized he would upset timelines. " I am ready to go."

Nodding his head, Sylvan pondered his dilemma; did he have to erase Branmer's memories of what had happened to him, or could he trust the Minbari to keep quiet?

" Do you understand that you can't tell anyone what has happened; especially not the Neroon in your timeline?"

" I will keep quiet. I understand."

Sensing the sincerity in those words convinced Sylvan that Branmer would keep it a secret." Good, then I won't have to manipulate your memory. We have to go now."

Sylvan felt Lorien reach out for him. Something strange had occurred on a planet called Z'ha'dum. Sylvan knew he had to hurry. Extending his hand, the First One waited for Branmer to accept it. The Minbari didn't hesitate and took hold of it. Their shapes became transparent and Delenn watched them fade away until nothing remained. It was like neither Branmer nor Sylvan had ever existed. Quickly finding his way amongst all the different timelines and alternate universes, Sylvan located the Ingata at last. After he made sure it was safe for Branmer to materialize, he allowed the Minbari to reshape his body. One more telepathic warning directed at Branmer and Sylvan would be on his way. <Don't tell anyone what you have seen, or I will have to return and block certain memories after all.>

Branmer sighed, recognising his private quarters. Sylvan had returned him to his own time as promised. A movement coming from the couch caught his attention. ** Neroon. ** Shivering slightly, Branmer walked over to where Neroon had fallen asleep. The young warrior's face was worried, even in deep sleep. ** You have no idea what lies ahead of you, Neroon...and I am not going to tell you. ** Sitting down next to his Alit, Branmer wondered about the complexity of the universe. He knew that Neroon -- Satai Neroon, was together with Marcus in the future-- and yet here was the young Neroon, his second in command; his lover." Neroon? Wake up." There was a gentleness to his voice, which had never been there before. Part of him had changed, witnessing the perpetual battle between good and evil. Branmer smiled as Neroon woke. The anxiety in the young warrior's eyes was obvious.

" Branmer? Were have you been? You disappeared without a trace...."

Reading Neroon's emotions wasn't hard for Branmer. Neroon must have been at a loss as he had disappeared.

" Let's say.... I needed some time for myself.... I didn't forget about you, Neroon."

In an attempt to ensure the younger man that everything was all right, he rubbed Neroon's back and placed a gentle kiss on his lips. Neroon relaxed and Branmer rose to his feet. The Shai Alit shot him an amused grin.

" We should return to the bridge and Neroon?"

" Yes?"

" We definitely need to talk about burial rituals..."

Marcus waited for Neroon to get dressed after they had taken a shower together. He had left the shower early and was already fully dressed. There was something that bothered him. Ever since Sylvan had given him a small part of his energy and soul, there was a strange awareness tingling on the edges of his mind. He couldn't name it and that irritated him immensely. It had even been there while he had been together with Neroon.

His lover's name made him grin sheepishly. Their 'reconciliation' had definitely been one to remember. Marcus wondered about the strength of Neroon's love. His lover's voice made him quaver.

" Marcus? You look troubled."

The ranger got up from the bed and walked towards the bathroom. Neroon was putting on his black coat; his face bore a worried expression. " I don't feel...normal. Something changed, I don't know what it is."

Stepping out of the bathroom, Neroon turned to study Marcus. The glow in Marcus' eyes was burning brightly." Sylvan said there might be some changes. I am sure you will be able to deal with them."

Shrugging his shoulders, Marcus realized he didn't really have another choice than to wait and see what would happen. He knew Neroon would help him cope with everything.

" I think it is time to talk to Delenn and Branmer; they watched how Sylvan healed you."

Not feeling comfortable with the idea of facing anyone just yet, Marcus slid his hands over Neroon's back and pressed his full length against his lover' back." I know."

Neroon tenderly pulled Marcus' hands in front of his chest and caressed the soft skin." You are apprehensive about their reaction upon seeing your changed eyes?"

" I think so...I studied myself in the mirror while you were still in the shower. I don't think I can ever get used to them." Bringing his lover's hands to his lips Neroon kissed them one by one, hearing a soft moan coming from behind him. Turning around, the warrior saw the sparkle in the ranger's eyes. Neroon's tone was determined as he spoke. " Marcus, we need to talk to Delenn and Branmer."

" Branmer already returned to his own time."

They didn't expect hearing Delenn's voice. She was standing in the doorway.

Marcus swirled around, feeling quite uneasy about her reaction when she would see his changed eyes. But only calmness and acceptance showed on Delenn's face. He felt relieved and bowed slightly. "Entil- Zha."

" Marcus, had I known you needed help..."

A soft blush spread over the ranger's face. He felt honored by her concern.

" Thank you, Delenn, but there was nothing you could do to help me."

Delenn had reached the same conclusion after Branmer had told her about Sardon and Sylvan. And Marcus had been in the midst of this fight. " You'll never stop to amaze me, Marcus." She had wanted to continue, but grew silent as she saw the Jogmanars on their fingers; truly awed at the extent of their love. A love that had been tested so cruelly.

" We will arrive at Minbar in one hour. Would you honor me by sharing a meal with me?"

A naughty expression appeared in the ranger's eyes and Neroon caught it.

< Marcus?>

The ranger ignored him.

" We are not going to eat Flarn, are we Delenn? Please not..."

The chuckle on Marcus' face was enough to make Delenn smile.

" Flarn it will be, Marcus."

Neroon sighed as he set foot on Minbari soil. He had been away too long from home. Shahaam had sent him a message; the priest was looking forward to their return. As the three of them disembarked from the shuttle, Danzi took a deep breath, thrilled to be home again. The last one to leave the shuttle was Marcus. He had been lost in thought during the flight, still trying to figure out why he felt differently. As he looked up, he stared into Shahaam's eyes and smiled. Home at last.

The old priest made his way over to them only slowly; feeling the burden of the cycles he carried. Shahaam knew he wouldn't be able to serve his Satai for much longer. As he tripped over a sharp rock, his foot got entangled in his robe and he stumbled. He was a bit embarrassed to find that Neroon reach his side and help him up. Shahaam suppressed a moan as he realized that he had sprained or perhaps even broken his ankle. Old age had made his bones brittle.

" Shahaam? Are you all right?" Neroon helped his old mentor to get back to his feet and felt how heavily the other Minbari leaned on him.

" I think I have wricked my ankle."

Marcus had arrived at Shahaam's side as well. As if in trance, he reached down and lightly touched the sprained ankle. Hearing Shahaam's groan, Marcus watched how the priest stared at him in amazement. The moment Marcus touched his ankle; Shahaam felt a gentle warmth rush through his foot. An instant later, he placed his weight on both his feet, letting go of Neroon.

" The pain is gone, Marcus?" Catching sight of the ranger's eyes for the first time, Shahaam gasped. " Marcus?"

No longer feeling uncomfortable Marcus smiled, then directed his gaze at Neroon.

" Looks like Sylvan left me with some special talents."

Trying hard to catch up with his paperwork Neroon studied Marcus who was reading on the couch. It was a book written by a human author called Umberto Eco. Neroon had peeked inside once, only to find that it was plainly confusing. After that, he had lost interested. The ranger though seemed absolutely fond of it. Getting frustrated, Neroon wondered where to find the files he needed. The pile of papers, flimsies and crystals trembled as he made his way through them. No, they were definitely not here on the desk. Searching the room, he saw some files on the couch. " Marcus? Could you hand me those reports? This is such a mess."

" Of course, darling."

Neroon growled momentarily hearing the nickname the ranger had given him; a term of endearment Marcus had called it. Neroon didn't like it one bit, but hadn't been able to convince Marcus to stop using the nickname. " Don't call me darling, Marcus."

An amused grin was his only answer.

" The reports, Marcus..." The warrior watched amazed as the files began to float through the room towards his desk. " Marcus, are you doing that?"

The ranger looked up from his book and saw what had startled Neroon. The reports immediately dropped to the floor. Had he been doing that? He had never before been able to move objects with his mind.

Neroon saw the startled expression on his lover's face. ** I wonder what other 'talents' Sylvan left you with, Marcus. ** " Try it again, Marcus. I still need those files."

<You think I did that? >

Placing the report he had been reading back on the desk, Neroon nodded. It was obvious that the ranger had no idea what the extent of his new abilities was. Answering his lover telepathically, Neroon sensed Marcus' discomfort. <I think so. I told you Sylvan warned me about some things you might discover in time. Now try again. You can do it. Concentrate. >

Realizing Neroon was waiting for him to try again, Marcus focused on the papers on the floor. He held his breath when they rose from the floor and hovered towards the desk.

Unable to sleep, Neroon adjusted the pillows against his back. Marcus was soundly asleep. Since their return three weeks ago, Marcus had been free of nightmares. Neroon actually began to envy the ranger. Now he was the one tossing and turning in bed.

Pondering the things that had happened during these last weeks, Neroon realized that there was more of Sylvan inside Marcus than he had first thought. The ranger could heal injuries by merely touching the wounds and was able to move objects by the power of his mind. It didn't make Neroon feel uncomfortable though. He knew why Marcus possessed these powers and the warrior had seen the pleasure in Marcus' eyes when he managed to ease someone's pain. A soft moan caught his attention. His lover shifted in his arms and opened his golden eyes.

" Neroon?"

" Yes?"

" I hope you don't mind receiving visitors at this hour."

Neroon had no idea what Marcus was talking about. The ranger's brow was knitted in concern.

" Lorien and Sylvan." The moment Marcus spoke the words the air in their bedroom began to vibrate and two forms appeared out of nowhere. Neroon gently pushed Marcus off him and went to stand next to the bed. Marcus remained in bed, sitting upright, his hands resting in his lap. Both First Ones had the same, now familiar, appearance and Neroon wished he knew who was who. He noticed the flaming fire in the eyes of one of them; Sylvan.

Sylvan took a step forward and smiled. " Marcus, Neroon. We are here to say goodbye. We are going to take the older races beyond the rim to give the new races a chance to create their own universe."

Lorien took over the explanation." Your friends, John Sheridan and Delenn made the Shadows and the Vorlons aware that a new time had arrived in which there was no longer place for them. We are going to take the other First Ones with us...You, Marcus...you're a First One as well."

Marcus tried to remain composed. But he was afraid Lorien would demand he accompanied them.... He couldn't do that; he couldn't leave Neroon behind. "Me? A First One? Come on, Lorien...yes, there is a part of Sylvan in me, but I am definitely not a First One."

Sylvan understood the human's fear. Sitting down next to Marcus, he softly stroked the dark hair, trying to ease the ranger's worries." You have to stay here, Marcus. We need someone to keep an eye on Sardon... Just in case he finds a way to break out of his vicious circle. And you will discover other reasons why your presence here is of great importance."

Neroon, who had been silent up to this point, sighed from relief. For a moment he had been afraid that Sylvan wanted to separate them.

The First One sensed the warrior's unease and smiled. " Neroon, you and Marcus will be the new guardians and take Lorien's place. No one will know what role you will play, except for Lorien and me. In time you will both discover why you were chosen."

Marcus and Neroon were looking at each other, wondering what Sylvan was hinting at. It was Neroon who addressed Sylvan. "Guardians? Of what?"

"Of the universe of course. After we have taken the races beyond the rim, Marcus will be the only First One left..." An amused grin moved over Sylvan's face, as he looked Marcus in the eyes. The First One relished seeing the golden blaze in them; so much like his own. In time Marcus would discover his boundless power. Freeing himself from the hypnotic golden eyes, Sylvan gazed at the Minbari; so strong, a limitless love inside his soul. "And you, Neroon will find that being raised from the dead has changed you as well. Your transformation only takes more time. Marcus possesses part of my energy AND soul, you only possess part of my energy."

Neroon didn't like hearing this one bit." Are you telling me this isn't over yet?"

Lorien crooked his head and answered the question. "Over? No Neroon, it has only just begun."

As the two First Ones began to vanish, a shattering silence descended into the bedroom. Tired, Neroon sat down on the bed and surrendered to Marcus' embrace; the ranger rested his head against Neroon's broad chest.

"What was he talking about, Marcus?"

"I have no idea Neroon. But I do know a new chapter in the history of the universe will begin."

The end :)