Rating: R

Spoilers: Yes.

Note: This is a crossover story of Farscape and Babylon 5.

Disclaimer: I did not create Farscape, the universe of Farscape, or its characters. Nor did I create the universe of Babylon 5 and its characters. I merely borrowed them for this story, for which I will receive no monetary compensation. No infringement of copyright intended. Some of the characters in this story were created by me. There use by any other writer is prohibited without my permission.

Time Frame: Takes place 18 years after "Flying Colors". Farscape: Twenty-four years after end of Season 2. Babylon 5-Earth Year 2286, five years after "Sleeping in Light".

***********************************************

Chapter 1: The Beginning

*

Admiral Scorpius, commander of the Peacekeeper Research and Development Division, made his way through the corridors of Peacekeeper High Command on Sebacea. It was rare that he was called back to High Command, but the Peacekeeper Command Council ordered him back on an urgent matter. So, the Scarren/Sebacean hybrid stalked to his destination, as usual earning many a stare from the other Peacekeepers around him.

When he got to his destination, he was ushered right into an office by a Lieutenant. Greeting Scorpius was Admiral Talkron Mattoc, the leader of the Peacekeeper Command Council. "Ah, Scorpius," the older Sebacean man said. "Come in and sit down. I've been waiting for you."

"Yes, sir," said Scorpius, and complied with the order to sit in one of two black chairs in front of a large desk. "Sir, perhaps you can tell me why I have been brought here?"

"Yes, of course," said Mattoc. "Scorpius, you may recall an encounter you had with a group of warships from Earth approximately twenty-two cycles ago. The one in which you were defeated, and your command carrier destroyed."

"Yes," said Scorpius quietly. He did not like to remember that day, when Crichton's people had gotten the best of him and his command carrier. Scorpius' loss of that engagement did not sit well with High Command, and it cost him much support on the Council.

"You may also recall that the Humans used a technology which allows them to open a portal, a doorway, into a parallel universe called hyperspace. A universe were distances relative to our own universe are much shorter, and thus makes star travel much shorter in duration."

"I have been working on the problem of how that technology works for cycles now," admitted Scorpius. "I'm afraid we haven't had any success in making it work."

"Yet, somehow, the Humans and other aliens in that area of the universe use this technology as a common form of star travel. They have a whole system of devices that open portals into hyperspace, and their larger ships can open portals themselves. This technology would be very useful to the Peacekeepers in their efforts to 'pacify' threats to our order. We want that technology."

"So I have known for cycles," said Scorpius. "How would you propose we get it, sir?"

"From the source," said Mattoc. "That is where you come in. The Council is ordering you to take command of a fleet of 50 command carriers and support ships, invade the area of space where this technology can be found, destroy any opposition, and take it."

"You want me to lead a full scale invasion just to get hyperspace portal technology," replied Scorpius. "It sounds like we are overdoing it a bit. Why not..."

"We are not just launching this invasion for hyperspace access tech," interrupted Mattoc. "This Interstellar Alliance could pose a very strong threat to Peacekeeper dominion in this part of the galaxy. They have already begun expanding their contacts in the Uncharted Territories. The Sebacean Royal Colonies regularly trade with Interstellar Alliance worlds. It will only be a matter of time before they will be able to establish a stronger military presence near our region of the galaxy. They would not just be one world or one race against us. Their alliance represents a number of worlds that could threaten Peacekeeper dominance of this part of the galaxy. War between our two sides is inevitable. We can not tolerate such an organized alliance of worlds not under our control, nor can they expand their influence in this part of the galaxy with us in their way. The Peacekeepers will be the first to strike."

"What is the ultimate goal of this invasion?" asked Scorpius. "Aside from acquiring hyperspace jump technology."

"Our ultimate goal is the conquest of the planet Earth," replied Mattoc. "We have been sending operatives into Interstellar Alliance territory for some time now. From all reports, the Earth Alliance is the centerpiece of the Interstellar Alliance. Without them, the ISA will be half as strong as it is now. If we can take Earth, we can force the other worlds to sue for peace. Besides, it has been the Humans who have been by far the most eager to open up relations with worlds in this part of space. Eighteen cycles ago, one of our reconnaissance vessels followed the Earth Destroyer Indefatigable to the Royal Colonies. That was where their incursions into our part of the galaxy continued. Now that they have opened hyperspace travel access to the Royal Colonies, more incursions have followed. They must be stopped. You have had more experience with Humans than any other Peacekeeper, thanks to your personal battles with John Crichton. You are the best choice to lead this invasion."

"Hmm," said Scorpius. "The Humans are similar to Sebaceans biologically. They could also make useful slaves for experimentation in comparative biology. Excellent! When shall I lead this invasion."

"Your fleet is being assembled. It will leave in one weeken. Can you be ready?"

"Yes. Oh, may I request that Captain Braca be assigned to me as my second in command. We have worked well together in the past."

"It shall be done."

Mattoc and Scorpius rose, and the half-breed bowed before the member of the Peacekeeper Command Council. "May this expedition be a crowning glory for the Peacekeepers," said Scorpius.

**

Five Months Later

General Robert McGregor sat at his desk in his spacious office at the headquarters of the Earth Alliance (commonly called Earth Dome), in Geneva, Switzerland, on Earth. He was going over the last of the many pages of paperwork that went with the job of being the Chairman of the Earth Force Joint Chiefs of Staff, the services' highest military officer.

McGregor generally disliked paper work (although he got used to doing it long ago as a ranking Earth Force officer), but on this evening, he filled out the documents with a feeling of almost fondness for it. He knew in a way that he would miss it, just as he would miss all of the other aspects of being an Earth Force officer after his impending retirement from the service tomorrow.

Robert had served for 34 years in Earth Force, five years as the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs. He had assumed the job after General Susan Ivanova had retired from the service five years ago to become the head of the Rangers. She had recommended McGregor to succeed her, and the President had agreed to the decision. To General McGregor, it felt like that it was only yesterday when he had officially relieved Ivanova as Chairman. Now, at 12 hundred hours tomorrow, someone else would relieve him of the duty.

He knew that he would miss Earth Force, but he was also looking forward to spending more time with his wife, Jenavia, and with his children. Of course, their oldest, 18 year old Katherine (or Katie as her father liked to call her) was away training to become a Ranger. But his second daughter, Elisa (16), and his son, Michael (12), were both still living at home. The McGregor family lived in a huge, two story ranch house in Virginia that Robert had inherited from his Uncle. He and Jenavia commuted to and from work by shuttle each day (one of the advantages of being the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs was access to a personal military shuttle craft. Jenavia McGregor worked as a security consultant at the Earth Offices for Edgars/Garabaldi Industries. She would also be leaving her position there to be with Robert more now that he was retiring.

As if she were summoned, Jenavia walked into Robert's office. He looked up at the woman who he loved more than life itself, still looking much as she did when they had met in the Sebacean Royal Colonies 18 years before. This was due to the fact that Sebaceans age much slower than Humans do. Robert sometimes thought about how someone who still looked so young was saddled with a 54 year old man with graying hair and a few wrinkles. He was still an attractive man by any standards, but Jena could attract any young suitor she desired. When he mentioned that to her once, she walked up to him and made him take her in his arms. She told him that he was the only man she had ever loved, and that she always would love him.

"Robert," she said. "Aren't you ready yet?"

She was dressed in a beautiful, conservative white dress. Robert and Jenavia had been invited to some reception that night that the President was giving.

"And hello to you too, beautiful," replied Robert as he got up from his desk, walked across the room, and kissed his wife. He put his arms around her and rubbed her back. "All I have to do is put on my dress coat and saber, and I'll be ready. Besides, its just over in the next building, it won't take us long to get there."

"What have you been up to?" asked Jenavia.

"Finishing up some last minute things." Robert then sighed. "Getting ready for the big day tomorrow."

Jenavia placed the palm of her hand on her husband's cheek. "I know," she said. "No second thoughts about retiring?"

"No, honey. No second thoughts. I will miss it, but...its time to go."

McGregor walked over to a coat rack and removed his dress uniform coat from it. He put it on, followed by his saber. Jenavia walked over to Robert and helped him fix his uniform, checking to see that the many ribbons and insignia that adorned it were in perfect alignment. His left breast was covered with dozens of ribbons, which marked his many years of distinguished service to Earth Force.

"There," she said. "That's my proud General."

Robert put his hands on Jenavia's shoulders. "Remember when we first met. I was wearing my dress uniform, and you were wearing a stunning white dress."

They looked deeply into each others eyes for a few quiet moments. Robert and Jenavia McGregor then embraced each other in a passionate kiss. He held her close to him and spoke softly to her. "Eighteen years later, and you are still the brightest star in my sky."

They kissed once again briefly. "Come on, my love," said Jenavia. "We should get to the reception."

They left McGregor's office arm in arm and walked to the reception hall. The couple made their way out of the building they were in and walked across the courtyard under a setting sun. Robert and Jenavia entered another building, and walked up several flights of stairs to the reception hall.

When they walked into the room, they heard a voice yell out. "Officers, ATTEN-TION!"

They were greeted by the sight of one hundred Earth Force Officers in full dress uniform snapping to attention. The officers were formed in two lines facing each other, with an open area in between them.

General McGregor stood in stunned silence at the sight. Jenavia merely smiled, having already known about this before they walked in. They looked around the room, and saw a number of other guests who began to applaud. Ahead of them was a stage, where a group of government officials stood waiting (including President Schroeder himself). Above the stage was a banner that read "Farewell, General McGregor. Earth Force Honors You."

Captain James Hancock stepped forward to greet the General and his wife. When the applause broke, the Captain saluted and said. "Sir, assembled Officers are ready for your inspection."

McGregor, still stunned, was slow to reply with a salute. He finally did, and spoke to his former Executive Officer. "Thank you, Captain."

General McGregor walked in between the two lines, seeing officers he had served with since he graduated from the Earth Force Academy thirty-four years ago. Many of them had since retired, but had put on their uniforms one more time for this day to honor a man they admired. As he walked down the line, a military band played "Ruffles and Flourishes."

The last two officers in the line were two he had come to know very well over the years. Captain John Crichton and Commander Aeryn-Sun Crichton had been back to Earth a number of times over the years, and they and their son had become close with the McGregor family.

Robert shook hands with the Crichtons, and thanked them for being there. He then walked up on stage, Jenavia on his arm and Captain Hancock just behind him, and shook hands with the President. "Congratulations, General," said President Schroeder.

"Thank you, sir," said McGregor. He was still in a bit of shock, as the President walked up to a microphone with General McGregor at his side.

"Ladies and gentlemen," he began, "Officers of Earth Force, honored guests. We are here tonight to celebrate the retirement of a man who many have described as the best of his generation. His rapid rise through the ranks was not the result of political connections or family name or currying favor with the right people. McGregor earned every promotion and every decoration through his exemplarity conduct, personal courage, and ability to command. General Robert McGregor's career has made him a legend among the officers of Earth Force and among the citizens of the Earth Alliance. From his actions as a young fighter pilot in an engagement with raiders that earned him the Earth Force Medal of Valor, our highest military honor. His service under such officers as MacDoughan, Lefcourt, and Sheridan prepared him for command. Promoted to Captain just in time for the Drakh War, McGregor played a critical part in fighting the war and saving every man, woman, and child of this planet from the Drakh plague. As a Captain, and then a General, McGregor commanded ships and squadrons and fleets with unwavering ability. This ability would eventually bring him to the highest position in Earth Force, Chairman of the Earth Force Joint Chiefs of Staff. Now, he is ready to sheath his sword and retire from Earth Force. Let us show him tonight that although he may no longer be in Earth Force, he will never be far from the hearts and minds of the officers who serve in Earth Force. Ladies and gentlemen, it is my honor to introduce General Robert McGregor."

The audience cheered as General McGregor took the podium. He was happy for the long applause they gave him, not because it was in honor of him, but rather because it gave him a few moments to think of something to say. When the applause died down, McGregor spoke.

"I have to say that...I am deeply moved by this honor that you have granted me. I'm not sure if I deserve all of it, because every accomplishment of my career has been made possible only by the good service of so many other officers I have served with. They deserve the eternal thanks of the people of the Earth Alliance for their service."

The audience applauded in response to these remarks, and then McGregor continued. "I have worn the uniform of an Earth Force officer for over thirty years. When I first put it on, it was the fulfillment of all of my childhood dreams. While wearing this uniform, I lived a life of adventure and excitement beyond the wildest dreams of my childhood, always staying true to the axiom of 'duty, honor, country'. Tomorrow, I will take off this uniform for the last time, and I will begin a new chapter in my life. I welcome retirement, but I do so with heavy heart because of the knowledge that I will never again command such fine officers as all of you. Goodbye, and God speed."

The audience applauded, and the proud General barely held back tears as he looked out and saw so many faces he had come to know over the years. Yes, it would be hard to leave, the hardest thing he has ever had to do. But, it was time to do so. Nothing lasts forever.

Robert and Jenavia mingled with the crowd, shaking hands and renewing old acquaintances. Eventually, they got to the Crichton family, who had been informed about this party by Jenavia months ago. They came to Earth on Moya as soon as they had heard, to be here for Robert's retirement. The McGregors and Crichtons embraced each other as old friends. Robert and Jena noticed a young, blond woman hanging on the arm of Jack Crichton, John's and Aeryn's son.

"Well," said Robert to the young woman. "I don't think we have been introduced."

"Oh," said Jack. "Allow me. Uncle Robert, Aunt Jenavia, this is my wife, Elana Crichton. Elana, the McGregors."

"An honor," said Elana, as she shook their hands. "I've heard so much about you."

"A pleasure," said Robert. "Well, boy, when did you get hitched?"

"A few monens...months ago."

"You're Sebacean, aren't you?" asked Robert of Elana.

"Yes," she replied. "How did you know?"

"The accent," said Robert. "I would know a Sebacean accent anywhere."

"Of course you would," said Jenavia. "You've only been married to a Sebacean for 18 years."

The two families talked for a while, before the McGregors were pulled away by other guests who wanted to congratulate the General. Several hours into the party, General McGregor slipped out of the room and onto a nearby balcony. John Crichton noticed him leave, and followed him with a couple of beers.

"I hope I'm not disturbing you," said John, as he joined Robert on the balcony.

"No, John. Not at all," replied Robert, taking one of the beers from John. "So, your son is a married man now."

"Yeah, sure is. There's quite a story about how that happened, too. She was a Peacekeeper technician, and they....well, I'll tell you some other time. How are your kids doing?"

"Fine. Elisa and Michael are in school back home in Virginia. Katie has joined the Rangers, and is training on some world on the deep range."

"I thought she wanted to join Earth Force," said John.

"She did at one time. But, she decided not to for two reasons. One, her old man being a famous General, she was worried that she would always be judged in comparison to me. Then, there is the fact she is half Sebacean. I told her it didn't matter, but she felt that it would. Katie still wanted to be a warrior and serve a higher purpose. That was in her blood, I guess. So, she decided to become a Ranger. Since they are warriors who represent all of the races of the Interstellar Alliance, she felt she could belong there. I'm proud of her for being her own person, and for choosing a life of service."

They stood there, and drank their beers quietly for a few moments. Then, McGregor asked Crichton a question. "So, have you given up on trying to find a way to your own time?"

"Its sort of been put on the back burner," Crichton replied. "I work on the problem from time to time, working with wormhole theory. But, I wonder...I know I wouldn't belong there anymore. Hell, I don't even choose to live on Earth in this time. My home is on Moya, with my family. If I did ever find a way, it would just be for a visit. To see my Father, my sisters."

"You know, I've done some research on your Father. If you're ever interested in finding out..."

"No," interrupted Crichton. "I don't want to know what happened to him. That's why I never did the research on my own on visits to Earth. I want to remember him the way he was the day I left. I don't want to know his future, his fate."

"I understand," said Robert. The two of them talked for a few more minutes, before they decided to return to the party.

****************************************

Chapter 2: First Strike

(Day 1)

Earth Force Military Outpost, Vega System. 06:00 Hours EST (Earth Standard Time)

"Do we have an silhouette identification on those ships?" said the commander of the outpost to a Lieutenant.

"Running it through the computer now, sir. It..." The Lieutenant was shocked by what he saw. "Sir, computer identifies them as Peacekeeper Command Carriers."

"Are you sure?"

"Confirmed, sir. Silhouettes match historical data files. Ten command carriers at least, escorted by Marauders and Prowler class fighters. Approaching on attack vector from outer sector."

"Send orders to the destroyer squadron to intercept. Launch all fighters. Raise defense screens and activate defense grid."

The orbital defense stations at the military outposts raised their defense screens, and activated their plasma cannon and missile defense weapons. Starfury fighters streamed out of their docking bays.

A destroyer squadron of 3 Omega class destroyers and 2 Hyperion class heavy cruisers moved to intercept the incoming command carriers. They too armed weapons, raised defense screens, and launched fighters. Ten years ago, they would have had very little defense against incoming enemy fire. However, in that time, all Earth Force ships and military outposts were equipped with defense screens originally based on specifications provided by Moya's crew over twenty years ago. As required by the Interstellar Alliance treaty, all other alliance member worlds were also provided with the defense screen technology.

However, even with the added help of defense screens, the defenses at Vega are no match for ten command carriers with full Prowler and Marauder escort. The two forces moved towards each other, and the Peacekeepers were the first to open fire.

**

Earth Dome, Geneva. Earth. 12:00 Hours EST

"Under Article 101 of Earth Force Regulations," began General McGregor. "I herby turn over command of this post to General Jonas Achebe."

General Jonas Achebe was a distinguished, though lesser known Earth Force Officer, originally from Kenya in Africa. McGregor recommended him to the President because of his unparalleled ability to manage and organize. He knew very well that those were the traits that a Joint Chiefs Chairman needed. McGregor also knew that he was a quiet man who wasn't flashy, and thus did not get as much media attention as other more flamboyant officers did. At the same time, with quiet ability, Achebe had led men into battle with courage and capability. McGregor recognized this, and that was what finalized his decision to recommend him.

"Under Article 102 of Earth Force Regulations," said Achebe. "I herby assume command of this post from General Robert McGregor."

Achebe saluted McGregor. "I relieve you sir," he said.

"I stand relieved," said McGregor.

It was a quiet ceremony, with only the President and a few other officials present, although it was covered by cameras from the Interstellar News Network. Afterwards, Achebe said a few words to the camera and guests.

"It is with a great sense of honor that I accept this post, and I will do my best to fill some very big shoes." He said this last part looking at McGregor. "I will strive to serve well in the post that I have been appointed to. Thank you."

With that, the ceremony was over, and General McGregor was officially relieved of all official duties. His retirement would be final at midnight that night. McGregor walked into another room, where he was greeted by Jenavia and two of his children, Elisa and Michael.

"How do you feel, Daddy?" asked Elisa.

"I'm fine, darlin. It was hard...but, it was time to go."

Those were the same words he had said to Jenavia the night before. She now looked at her proud husband and hoped that they could be happy together in retired life.

"I need to pay my respects to General Achebe before we go," said Robert. "I'll only be a few moments."

"We'll be waiting," said Jenavia.

Robert kissed his wife on the cheek, and walked over to the Chairman's office. A few minutes before, it had been his office. Now, it belonged to Achebe. McGregor had to remember to knock before entering.

Achebe greeted his predecessor with a smile when McGregor entered the room. "So," he said. "Have you come to say goodbye to the office or me?"

"Both, I guess," said McGregor. "How do you feel?"

"A bit overwhelmed at the moment," said Achebe. "I just took a glance at my appointment calendar for the week. I don't know if I will have time to take a piss."

McGregor laughed. "You have to get your secretary to pencil in some appointments to the latrines," he said.

They were interrupted by the comm unit. "Yes," said Achebe into the comm.

"Sir, we have an urgent message from fleet command. Ultra violet priority," said the voice over the comm.

"Thank you," said Achebe.

"I'd better go," said McGregor. "Good luck."

"And to you," said Achebe.

As McGregor walked out the door, he heard Achebe say "receive" into the comm unit. He was slightly curious as to what the message was about, but he put it aside. It was no longer his job to be concerned with such matters.

McGregor reentered the waiting room where his family was, but was not able to say a word before an officer walked in to the room. "Excuse me, sir," said the Lieutenant. "You are needed in the President's office immediately."

"What? Maybe you haven't heard, but I am not longer..."

"Sir, the President and General Achebe both asked for you to come. It is very urgent."

McGregor wondered what could be so urgent for the President to call on the retiring Chairman. "Very well," said McGregor. "I'll be right there."

He turned to Jenavia and his children. "You had all better go on home," he said. "No telling how long this will take."

"Alright," said Jenavia. Robert kissed his wife and children goodbye, and headed for the President's office.

***

Admiral Scorpius' Command Ship. Same time.

Scorpius stood on the command deck of his flag ship, and watched his massive fleet of warships on the viewscreen. He was a scientist by nature, but the sight of his armada stirred the warrior spirit in the Scarren/Sebacean half-breed.

Captain Braca, his second in command, walked over to Scorpius from the communications console. "Sir," he said. "We have just received word. Attack fleet 3 has just taken Earth Force primary target one. The one they call Vega colony."

"Excellent, Captain. Give the fleet's commander my complements on a job well done. Is the rest of the fleet deployed per my orders?"

"Yes, sir," said Captain. "But, there has been a problem."

Scorpius turned to look at Braca. "Oh really," said Scorpius.

"Before the Earth outpost fell, one of their ships destroyed the local hyperspace portal gate," he said. "We destroyed the ship along with all of the other Earth ships in the system, but it was not in time to prevent the destruction of the gate."

"That could set us back some," said Scorpius. "But we shall just have to be sure to capture the gate in the next system."

"Yes, sir," said Braca.

"Any prisoners taken?" asked Scorpius.

"Very few, sir," said Braca. "About 13 all told."

"Thirteen out of an estimated 2000 Earth Force soldiers. Our forces were very thorough."

"That was part of it, sir," said Braca. "But the Earth Force ships refused to surrender. We had to destroy them all. The one's we captured were a few stray fighter pilots who ejected from their fighters."

"Hmm," said Scorpius. "Have them interrogated, questioned about their defenses at our next targets."

"Yes, sir." Braca left to implement his master's orders, while Scorpius sneered as he turned back to look on his fleet.

****

Earth Dome. 12:45 hours EST

As soon as McGregor arrived at the President's outer office, he was ushered right in to see the President. He walked in to be greeted by the President, several cabinet officials, General Achebe, and the entire Joint Chiefs of staff. Of course, McGregor knew them all well, and thought at first that this was some kind of farewell get together for him. But the startled looks on their faces quickly dispelled that idea.

"General McGregor, good," said President Schroeder. "I'm glad we caught you before you left. I'm afraid that your retirement will have to be put on hold."

"I don't understand," said McGregor.

Achebe spoke next. "At approximately 06:00 hours EST, our outpost in the Vega system came under attack by a fleet of Peacekeeper Command Carriers."

"What?" asked McGregor with shock. "Are they sure that its Peacekeepers?"

"Yes," said General Nicholi Zuchov, the Chief of Fleet Operations. "The ships were positively identified. At least ten command carriers, escorted by Marauders and Prowlers."

"My God," said McGregor. "That could only mean one thing."

"A full scale invasion," said the President.

"What's the status of Vega outpost?" asked McGregor.

"They were overrun about an hour ago. We just received the report on the attack not long ago," said Achebe.

"Let's take a look at the situation, shall we," said the President. They moved over to a display screen which had a star chart of that region of space on it.

"Here is Vega," said Achebe, pointing to the chart. "And this is the approximate position of the Peacekeeper forces. We have received other reports of command carriers moving towards the Minbari border, as well as towards Signet and Delphi systems. Our current estimates put their fleet at somewhere between 30 and 50 command carriers."

"They've moved in at a vulnerable area of our border," said McGregor. "We don't have a lot out there, and they are driving a wedge between us and our closest allies, the Minbari."

"They're not stupid," said Zuchov. "I can't believe they would attack the Minbari, at least not while they are in offensive actions against us."

"No, but they realize the Minbari will be the first to come to our aid," said McGregor. "After all, it was the Minbari that helped us defeat that command carrier at JL-327 twenty years ago. They are probably moving some of their forces to hold off any Minbari forces that may try to join the fight."

"What can we estimate as they're probable line of invasion?" asked Schroeder.

"Well," said Achebe. "If they can take Signet and Delphi, they can then move on Cook and Ross systems. Then there's Proxima 3, and finally Sol system. Earth."

"They've chosen their invasion route well," said McGregor. "It's the most open area of space on our border, not a lot of military bases. Its also relatively close to our innermost systems. We've just never fortified that area because there was never a threat from there before."

"Until now," said President Schroeder. "What are your recommendations?"

"We need to assemble a primary fleet to move to intercept the Peacekeeper fleet before they can take Signet and Delphi systems," said McGregor. "Luckily, at normal space hetch drive speeds, it will take them about a week to get to the closer of the two systems, Signet. That gives us some time."

"Who will command this fleet?" asked the President.

Achebe looked at McGregor. "I think General McGregor would be best to command the fleet."

"Wait, I mean...General, you are now the Chairman..."

"And that is why I am needed here to coordinate the services. Zuchov can't do it because he has to coordinate fleet operations throughout the alliance. We need an experienced fleet commander, and one who has experience with the Peacekeepers. That, Robert, is you."

"I agree," said President Schroeder. "Your retirement is herby held back, and I herby appoint you to command the fleet. That is, if you will accept the job."

"I will, sir," said McGregor. He could feel the old feeling rise within him again. This was one final service he could perform for his country, and he jumped at the chance to do it.

"Very good," said the President.

"Sir," said McGregor to Zuchov. "Might I request the Indefatigable as my flag ship."

"It shall be done," said Zuchov.

****

Interstellar Alliance Headquarters. Tuzanor, Minbar. Same time.

President Delenn of the Interstellar Alliance read the reports on the invasion of Earth Alliance territory by the Peacekeeper fleet with a great deal of alarm. More than ever since his death, she had wished for her husband, John Sheridan, to be there. He always knew what to do in times of crisis. Now, she had to rely on her own judgment and that of one other.

She activated her comm unit, and called her aid. "Shrelan," she said. "Request an immediate audience with the Grey Council. And call Entilza Ivanova. I wish to see her on a most urgent matter."

"At once, Madam President," said the Minbari aid.

*****

McGregor walked into the hallway outside of the President's office. He saw his wife, Jenavia, waiting for him in the corridor.

"Robert," said Jenavia as she approached him. "I just heard. Is it true? Has a Peacekeeper fleet really invaded the Earth Alliance?"

"Yes," said McGregor. "Its true."

"What did they want to see you about?"

"To provide one last chance for an old warrior to serve his people," said McGregor, as he took his wife into his arms.

*************************************

Chapter 3: Drawing Swords

* (Day 2)

Hyperspace: Beacon 33456-Marker for System Bravo 40 (Uninhabited). 13:00 hours EST

Captain Joshua Peabody sat in his command chair aboard the Earth Alliance Destroyer Yeager, waiting for his squadron to reach its jump coordinates. The 43 year old Captain from Connecticut was the senior Captain commanding a squadron of 4 Omega Class Destroyers dispatched from Signet system to attack the forward elements of the Peacekeeper fleet. Their job was to fight a delaying action to delay the Peacekeepers as long as possible before they could get to Signet system. The plan was to jump into the uninhabited system Bravo 40, wait for the Peacekeepers to pass through it, and ambush them.

Peabody's Executive Officer, Commander Leslie Marcus, reported to Peabody. "Sir, we're ready to jump."

"Very good, XO," said Peabody. "Order the squadron to jump."

"Aye, sir," replied Marcus.

Four jump points opened in system Bravo 40, and the 4 destroyers jumped into normal space. The planet before them was capable of supporting life, but it was pretty far off the normal hyperspace transit routes, so it was never settled by Humans. Now, the planet would act as cover for the Earth Force squadron as it waited for its prey to arrive.

**

On Board the EAS Yeager. 13:50 hours.

The fighter pilots of the Yeager filed into the briefing room to be brought up to speed on the battle plan for the upcoming operation. Among them was Lt. Joe Taylor, the commander of Delta Squadron, and a gifted fighter pilot. Taylor was a handsome young man with light features, fair hair, and brown eyes that hails from Dallas, Texas. He and the rest of the pilots got the run down on deployment, what was known about the Peacekeeper Prowler class fighters they would be coming up against, and the goals of the mission.

When the briefing was over, Taylor headed for the locker room to suit up. He put on the bulky pressurized flight suit and helmet, said a quick prayer, blew a kiss to the picture of his Mother taped in his locker, and headed for his fighter. Taylor climbed into the cockpit, checked over his systems, and contacted the other pilots in his squadron.

"Delta squadron, report status."

All of the other pilots in the squadron reported that they were standing by to launch. When they had all reported, Taylor contacted flight ops on the Yeager.

"Delta squadron, requesting clearance to launch."

"Delta squadron," came the voice of Commander Marcus. "You are clear for launch. God speed."

The ten fighters of Delta squadron streamed out of the forward bay of the Yeager, and headed out into space. They joined other squadrons already in formation from the Yeager and the other destroyers, and were joined by more squadrons still.

The Earth Force squadron was ready for the Peacekeepers.

***

ISA Headquarters. Tuzanor, Minbar. 15:00 hours EST

"I don't care, dammit," said Entilza (Ranger One) Susan Ivanova into the comm unit at her desk. "I want those white stars standing by and ready to rendezvous with the destroyers in 48 hours or I will get in a ship, fly there myself, relieve you of duty, and find someone else who can get the job done! Am I perfectly clear?"

"Yes, Entilza," said the shaken voice at the other end of the comm.

"This is the real thing, Captain Na'Goth. Get those ships ready."

She deactivated the comm, and went to see President Delenn. Ivanova got to her office, and was ushered right in by her aid, Shrelan.

"Ah, Susan, good," said Delenn, when Ivanova came through the door. "I have just returned from speaking to the Grey Council. They have voted to join Earth in the war with the Peacekeepers. The Minbari fleet has been put on a war preparation status. What about our fleet?"

"I have ten destroyers and 25 White Stars being prepped now. Have you been in contact with Earth Dome?"

"Yes," replied Delenn. "They are mobilizing a primary fleet now. General Robert McGregor has been placed in command."

"Good," said Ivanova. "He's a fantastic choice."

"There is more good news," said Delenn. "The Crichtons are on Earth. They will be serving as advisors to McGregor's fleet."

"Right now, we can use all the help we can get. What are your people planning to do?"

"The Minbari will move against the Peacekeeper command carriers sent towards our space, and make sure they understand the DEPTH of their MISTAKE. How do you plan to deploy the ISA fleet?"

"We're going to go to Myoto system, and move against the Peacekeepers' right flank. But, we still don't have enough ships to make an effective move on our own. Earth can't probably spare the ships because they are all going to McGregor's fleet. The Minbari are going to hit the Peacekeepers heading towards the Minbari border. The Narn have agreed to join the war, but their space is pretty far from the war zone and it will take their fleet time to mobilize and engage. And even if we do get help, we won't be in position to move until after the Peacekeepers have already gotten to Signet system. Its up to McGregor to stop them for now."

"I have an idea," said Delenn. She activated her comm unit on her desk. "Shrelan, open a channel to Centauri Prime. I wish to speak with Emperor Cotto."

****

Earth Dome. Same time.

Generals McGregor, Achebe, and Zuchov were all in a meeting, going over the plans for engaging the Peacekeepers at Signet. Captain John Crichton, Commander Aeryn-Sun Crichton, and several other officers were also present for the meeting.

McGregor's fleet was being assembled at Proxima 3, and it was the largest Earth had deployed since the Drakh War over 15 years ago. It would consist of a total of 55 warships of various classes. The newest and toughest warships in the fleet were the 20 Warlock class destroyers, while the rest of the fleet was made up of 25 Omega class destroyers, and ten aging Hyperion class heavy cruisers. The Hyperions were the oldest class of ships still in service with Earth Force, a design which went back to the 2250's. They had been updated with gravimetric drive systems for artificial gravity, so they were at least no longer zero G. The Omega class destroyers still maintained gravity through rotating sections, since it was felt that it wouldn't be worth the money and redesigns to the structure of the ships to convert them to gravimetric drive. The ships of the fleet would also be accompanied by troop transports with Earth Force ground forces ready to repel a ground assault on Signet colony.

"Commander Crichton," said McGregor to Aeryn. "What can we expect from the Peacekeepers when they attack?"

"They will make a full force attack against your main fleet, with the goal of blasting their way through you to get to the planet. Then, they will send in massed Marauders on an assault trajectory to land ground troops on the planet. Each carrier can carry about 4000 ground troops."

"Has the colony been evacuated?" asked McGregor of Achebe.

"The evacuation is underway as we speak," he replied. "We won't take any chances with the civilian population."

"Well, let's hope they can return home soon," said John.

"How long until my fleet can be assembled?" asked McGregor of Zuchov.

"At least another 12 hours," said Zuchov.

"Then its another 2 days through hyperspace to get to Signet," said McGregor. "The timing will be close."

"A squadron has been dispatched from Signet to intercept the forward elements of the enemy fleet," said Zuchov. "They should engage any time now. Hopefully, they can delay them."

*****

System Bravo 40. 1627 Hours EST.

"It's confirmed, sir," said Commander Marcus. "Two Peacekeeper Command Carriers with full fighter escort. Estimates place the main fleet at about 4 hours behind this forward unit."

"Have they seen us yet?" asked Captain Peabody.

"No, sir," said Marcus. "They are proceeding on course, and making no moves for defense."

"Good. Contact the other ships, visual signal only. Tell them to move on my command."

"Aye, sir."

Peabody was patient, and allowed the Command Carriers to move in closer and closer. He waited until the last possible moment, and then gave the order.

"Captain to squadron. Jump them. NOW!"

The four Earth Destroyers brought their engines to life, and they darted out of the shadow of the planet at flank speed. Their screens were up, their fighters were launched, their weapons were armed. And the Peacekeepers had just gotten caught with their pants down.

"All ships, target closest carrier," said Peabody. "All missiles and forward batteries: FIRE!"

The four destroyers fired their missiles at one of the carriers, while pouring out fire from their forward plasma cannons. The missiles and fire from the cannons found their target on the hull of the carrier before they could get their screens up. The impact of eight missiles and plasma fire from 8 cannons rocked through the carrier, and within a few moments, was a exploding fireball against the blackness of space.

The other Carrier raised its shields, and came about to engage Peabody's squadron. Its frag cannons opened fire, and sent a barrage of fire careening into the four ships. Starfuries and Prowlers began to mix it up among the fire from the big warships, pulse cannon and plasma cannon fire finding their marks as the smaller ships attacked one another.

Lt. Taylor led his squadron into a dive against a wing of Prowlers, firing away at the enemy ships and causing them to break formation. One of the Prowlers moved away from the main group and headed for the planet. Taylor saw it move away, and signaled his squadron.

"Delta Leader to squadron. One of them's moving to get away. I'm on him. Stay with this group."

Taylor turned his fighter to pursue the escaping Prowler. He followed the Prowler towards the planet, trying to get a decent target lock to take him out. The skilled pilot knew that this Peacekeeper was probably trying to lure him towards the atmosphere of the planet, where it could operate but his Starfury couldn't. Taylor knew he had to take him out before he got to the planet.

He brought the Prowler into his line of sight, and opened fire. His shots didn't hit head on, but did strike the Prowler on one of its wing struts. It began to spin out of control and careen down to the planet.

Taylor was preparing to return to his squadron, when he caught the sight of pulse cannon fire coming from the Prowler in his direction. "Oh, shit!" he said, as he tried to maneuver away, but he was too late. The fire blasted away his starboard engines, and he too went spinning out of control.

"Mayday, mayday!" he yelled into his comm. "This is Delta leader. I am going down. Anyone read me."

He received no response. "Ejecting!" he said. Taylor activated his ejection system, and the forward cockpit section of the Starfury fighter blasted away from the main structure of the fighter. It began to descend into the atmosphere near the crashing Prowler.

***********************************

Chapter 4: Forces in Motion

*

ISA Headquarters. Minbar. 17:00 hours EST.

"Vir, your people are the only ones who can provide aid in that area of space in a short amount time," said President Delenn over the comm. She was speaking with Emperor Vir Cotto of the Centauri Republic in an attempt to get them to join in the fight against the Peacekeepers.

"I would do it in a moment if it were just me, you know that, Delenn," said Emperor Cotto. "But...my people are tired of war, conflict. We are still in the process of rebuilding after ridding ourselves of the Drakh occupation."

"May I remind you who helped your people in getting rid of Drakh," said Delenn. "I could also remind you of the fact that Earth has been more than helpful in your rebuilding efforts."

"I know, Delenn, and the Centauri are extremely grateful." Vir sighed and was quiet for a moment. He then nodded, and spoke again. "Very well, Delenn. I will call a meeting of the Centaurum, and do my very best to convince them. The position of Emperor is not as powerful as it used to be, and with good reason. But, I still do have a good deal of influence. I will use it."

"If the Centaurum approves of the measure, how long will it take for the Centauri fleet to be mobilized."

"At least a week," he said. "It would then take us another 3 days to get to Myoto system and rendezvous with your forces."

"Hmm," said Delenn. "It will have to do. Thank you, old friend."

"Be well, Delenn." The image of Emperor Cotto disappeared from the screen.

**

System Bravo 40. Same time.

The Earth Force squadron under Captain Peabody exchanged blows with the remaining Peacekeeper command carrier. It was a rough fight, and Peabody had already lost one of the destroyers in his squadron. The three that were left are finally getting the upper hand, knocking out the Peacekeepers' defense screens and starting to land well targeted blows into her hull. But before they could close in for the kill, the Earth warships picked up multiple signals on their scanners.

On board the EAS Yeager, Commander Marcus reported to Captain Peabody. "Sir, scanners are detecting four more carriers entering this system at high speed on attack vector. Orders?"

"Alright," said Peabody. "We've done our job. One Peacekeeper carrier destroyed, one heavily damaged, and they've been delayed for a few hours at least. Prepare to jump back to hyperspace. We won't get a chance to finish off the other piece of cheese that landed in our mouse trap, but there will be other days."

"All ships report ready to jump," said Marcus.

"Jump," ordered Peabody.

The three Earth Force destroyers opened their jump points into hyperspace just as the four arriving Peacekeeper carriers came into firing range. As the Earth ships tried to leave, the carriers opened fire. The defense screens of the Earth ships can't operated during jump do to the power drain needed to make the jump, so they were vulnerable to the attack.

The blasts from the Peacekeeper frag cannons found one of their targets, the EAS Cadmus. They Peacekeeper fire struck the Cadmus in here engines, and sent explosions ripping through her rear section. The began to loose power, and the jump point collapsed, destroying the Cadmus in its wake.

The Yeager made it into hyperspace, along with the other remaining destroyer. Now safe in hyperspace, Captain Peabody and his crew took stock of their losses.

"Half the squadron," he said with regret. "We got one carrier, damaged another, but lost half the squadron."

"What course should we set, sir?" asked Commander Marcus quietly.

"Set course for the next system between here and Signet," said Peabody. "We need to buy our people more time. Even if it costs us all our lives, we have to buy time."

"Aye, aye, sir," said Marcus.

***

Uninhabited Planet. System Bravo 40. Approximately 17:20 hours EST.

Lt. Joe Taylor surveyed the landscape around him. The area seemed to be covered with dry grasslands, almost similar to an Earth savannah. The atmosphere was breathable, so Taylor got out of his pressurized flight suit. He retrieved his survival pack from the Starfury escape pod, checked his PPG pistol, and headed in the direction of where the Prowler he shot down crashed.

Taylor decided that he had better locate that Peacekeeper before he located him. He really didn't want to have to worry about survival and playing tag with an enemy soldier at the same time. The Human would try to capture the enemy pilot. But if the Peacekeeper resisted, Taylor would kill him if necessary.

He hiked for several hours, seeing nothing but more and more dry grassland around him. This worried him a little because it might make water sources scarce. There would probably be some groundwater somewhere (if there are plants, there has to be at least some water), but it might be spread out and difficult to collect.

Taylor finally saw smoke coming from over a hill, and figured he had finally come upon the Prowler. He drew his PPG pistol, and activated its charge in preparation to fire. Taylor got down on his belly, and crawled over the crest of the hill.

On the other side of the hill, he saw the wreckage of the Prowler he had shot down. The cockpit did not look like it had been open. He resisted the urge to rush down there, instead choosing to lay quietly and watch for any signs of movement. After several minutes, it seemed to be quiet enough, so Taylor took a chance and crept quietly up to the ship.

Taylor got to the cockpit, and looked for some mechanism to open it. He found a control panel, and decided to try and use it to open the canopy of the Prowler. It worked, and the canopy opened to reveal the Peacekeeper pilot, still apparently unconscious from the crash.

The Human freed the Peacekeeper from his safety harnesses, and dragged him out of the cockpit. Taylor laid his enemy down on the ground, and moved to remove his flight helmet. Before he could do so, the Peacekeeper began to move. Taylor backed off, and raised his PPG.

"Can you understand me?" asked Taylor.

The Peacekeeper did not respond, but moved to remove his helmet. When the helmet was removed, it was not a he that stared back at Taylor. It was a she. A dark haired Sebacean woman with brown eyes and a tan complexion.

"Can you understand me?" repeated Taylor.

"I can...understand you, Human," she replied with a stern tone. "I am your prisoner."

"I suppose so, not that the distinction means much at the moment. We're all alone here. My name is Joe Taylor, Lieutenant, Earth Force. You?"

"Officer Yalon Marst, Spearstone Company, Krelstar Regiment." She was quiet for a moment, apparently in thought. Then, a look of realization came over her face. "You are the one who shot me down?"

"Yes," replied Taylor. "We're even, though. Your last volley is the one that got me. That was good shooting."

"Hmmph, admiration from a Human. My life has meaning," she said sarcastically.

"Sincere admiration from a fellow pilot," said Taylor.

"You are not a fellow of mine," she said.

"Your wounded," said Taylor, bending down. "I have a first aid kit. Let me treat you."

"No thank you," said Marst. "I don't need your help, Human."

"Alright, look here, Peacekeeper," he said. "Let's set some ground rules right now. We are stranded here, alone. We may need to depend on each other for survival. So let's cut the superior Peacekeeper CRAP so we can help each other. You are wounded, I can help you. Let me help you, or I will simply knock your ass out and treat you unconscious! Which would you prefer?!"

Marst didn't respond immediately, but nodded after a few moments of thought. "Alight," she said.

Taylor checked her for weapons to be on the safe side, then holstered his PPG. He then reached for his med kit in his pack, and began to do his best with Earth Force first aid training to treat her wounds. "Well," he thought sarcastically. "I bet this gal's fun at parties."

****

(Day 3)

EAS Indefatigable. In route to Fleet Staging Area at Proxima 3. 08:00 hours EST.

General Robert McGregor sat on the bridge of the Indy, the ship that had been his home for most of his time as a Captain, and was later his command ship as a squadron commander, and his flag ship as a fleet commander. It was now his flagship again, and he was again taking her into fire.

He looked over at Captain James Hancock, the Captain of his flagship. He had been with him as a first officer, and then a flag Captain for many years, ever since the mission to the Sebacean Royal Colonies. Hancock had proven to be a most able second, although McGregor was sure that he was happier when the old man wasn't looking over his shoulder. But James Hancock never complained, never objected. On the contrary, McGregor and Hancock shared a relationship marked by mutual admiration and genuine friendship.

Also on the bridge were the two people that McGregor called his "two Crichtons". Captain John Crichton and Commander Aeryn-Sun Crichton were with him as highly valued advisors in the battle that was to come. They both had more experience than any other officers in the service with the Peacekeepers. Aeryn was once a Peacekeeper herself, so her experience had proven in the past to be extremely valuable. They had left their son, Jack, and daughter-in-law, Elana, back on Earth. They had both wanted to come and lend their aid to the fight, but Elana had just found out that she is pregnant. Jack wouldn't risk her or their baby's safety, and he didn't want to leave her at this time. So they stayed on Earth where it was safe, but Elana would still work with Earth Force technical personnel in providing information about Peacekeeper systems. The Crichtons had said some tearful goodbyes the night before.

They weren't the only ones. Jenavia McGregor had thought she had seen the last of sending her husband to battle. But fate had intervened, and Robert was again off to war. The night before, Robert had embraced his children and kissed them goodbye, and then took his wife into his arms. She had wanted to come with him. Being a former Peacekeeper disruptor, she too would have had valuable information to provide. But Robert insisted she stay with the children, both for his peace of mind and to protect the secret that they had never revealed to anyone on Earth about Jena's past. So she stayed, and once again said goodbye to her husband as he headed out on deployment.

McGregor remembered something that he wanted to do, and rose from his command chair to leave the bridge. "Captain Hancock, I'll be in my quarters. If you would, please have communications open a channel to the Ranger training facility on Drathnor 2."

"Very well, sir."

The General walked through the familiar corridors of the Indy to his quarters. When he got there, he sat as his desk and waited for the bridge to inform him that his call was ready.

After about 7 minutes, the bridge informed him that a channel was open. General McGregor activated his visual comm unit. The face of a Minbari Ranger appeared on the screen.

"This is Ranger Training facility 4 on Drathnor 2. How may we assist you, General?"

"I wish to speak to Ranger trainee Katherine McGregor, my daughter."

"Please wait a few moments," said the Minbari. The screen switched to a standby image, while they looked for McGregor's daughter. After a few minutes, the face of a lovely young woman with brown hair appeared on the screen.

"Hi, Daddy," said Katherine McGregor.

"Hey, Katie girl," said Robert. "My God, honey. You're a vision of loveliness, you know that. I hope those guys at the facility aren't coming on to my little girl too much."

"Ha, as if we would have time for that," said Katie. "They keep us so busy with training, and meditation, and more training and more meditation. Then of course we eat, and then we..."

"Let me guess, meditate some more, right?"

"You guessed it," said Katie, with a chuckle. "How are you, Daddy? I've heard what's been going on. Is it really a massive Peacekeeper invasion?"

"I'm afraid so," said McGregor. "Vega system has fallen, and if we don't move quickly, Signet will be next. I'm kind of worried about you, though. Part of the Peacekeeper fleet has headed towards the Minbari border. Drathnor is on the border."

"The Minbari fleet's mobilizing, from what I've heard," said Katie. "They'll handle it. Don't worry about me. How does Mom feel about you being back in the saddle?"

"She's not thrilled," said Robert. "But she understands."

Just then, Robert's hand link activated. He activated it. "McGregor here," he said into the link.

"General," said Hancock over the comm. "Signal from Earth Dome, General Zuchov with an update on our mobilization time table."

"Thanks," replied McGregor. "I'll be just a moment." He looked at the face of his oldest daughter on the screen. "Honey, I've got to go."

"I understand," said Katie. "Please, Daddy. Be careful. I love you."

"I love you, too, Katie girl. Goodbye."

The screen blinked off, and the General sat quietly for a moment, thinking about how much he missed Katie. He shook himself out of it, and opened the channel with Zuchov.

*****

ISA Headquarters. Minbar. 12:00 hours EST.

"Have we heard from Vir?" asked Ivanova of Delenn, as they walked down the corridors of the ISA headquarters towards the shuttle pad.

"No," said Delenn. "But I'm sure he is doing his best to get the Centaurum to approve intervention. If he can do it, the Centauri fleet should be able to join you at Myoto in ten days."

"Well, it will still take us a few days to get our forces mobilized and in position at Myoto. Once that's done, we'll make some thrust at the right flank of the Peacekeeper fleet, try and draw away some of their forces from Signet and Delphi, and maybe strike at their supply lines."

When they got out to the shuttle pad, a Minbari flyer was already waiting to take Ivanova up to her command ship, the Excalibur. "I wish I were coming with you, Susan," said Delenn.

"I know," replied Ivanova. "Me, too. It would have been just like old times. But you're needed here to coordinate with the other alliance worlds."

"Good luck, old friend," said Delenn.

"To us all," replied Ivanova. They hugged briefly, and Ivanova headed for her flyer.

***************************************

Chapter 5: The Wall of Ships

*

(Day 5)

Centauri Prime. 12:50 hours EST

"Majesty," said one Counselor Duross, leader of the Centaurum. "We grant that the Humans have been very helpful in helping us to rebuild after the end of the Drakh occupation. What we question is whether that is reason enough to justify the use of so much of our military resources, not to mention lives, to join their war against the Peacekeepers?"

"Its not just THEIR war," replied Emperor Cotto. He had been in discussions with the Centaurum about Centauri intervention against the Peacekeepers for a day and a half. They made the arguments against the move that Vir expected from them. Opposition based on weariness of conflict, the cost and expenses involved, whether or not it was the Centauri's war to fight. He decided to put all of his cards on the table. "Do you truly think the Peacekeepers are only a threat to the Humans? I was on Babylon 5 twenty years ago when testimony was presented about the Peacekeepers from those who have been victimized by them. Everything we know about the Peacekeepers tells us that they will not stop with Earth. They will do their level best to pacify, to dominate every race in this part of the galaxy, and they have the military might to do so. Only together: us, the Humans, Minbari, and even the Narn. We can only defeat the Peacekeepers if we stand together. It is better to face them now before the Humans are defeated, conquered. Then, we will face them much weaker. We must move now! As the Emperor, I make a formal request for the Centaurum to approve a declaration of war against the Peacekeepers."

There was a great deal of murmuring among the members of the Centaurum. In the old days, the Emperor would merely had to have ordered a declaration of war, and it would have been carried out. But since the reforms instituted by Emperor Cotto himself, the Centaurum must now approve any move such as this.

"A measure has been put before the Centaurum," said Counselor Duross. "I move that we stay all further discussion, and put the measure to a vote."

**

Signet System. 15:05 hours EST.

Fifty-five hyperspace jump points opened up in space near Signet colony, and out of those jump points came the 55 warships of General Robert McGregor's fleet. They streamed into normal space like a swarm of bees, and took up positions near the planet.

"All ships report entry to normal space," said Captain Hancock to McGregor.

"Very good," replied McGregor. "Get me a channel to Signet Base."

"Aye, sir" said Hancock.

Within a few moments, the face of the commanding officer of Signet outpost came on the main bridge view screen. "Signet outpost, General Walter Bradford," said the man in a thick Scottish accent.

"This is General Robert McGregor, commanding primary fleet."

"Thank God you got here, sir," said Bradford. "We thought we might have to face those bloody Peacekeepers alone."

"Have all of the civilians been evacuated?" asked McGregor.

"Every last one," said Bradford. "Its just Earth Force down here now."

"What about Peabody's squadron?" asked McGregor. "When are they due back."

"I'm afraid...they're all dead," said Bradford. "The last two remaining ships of the squadron were lost in a second holding action against the enemy fleet. Both the Yeager and the Medusa were destroyed. But they took another enemy carrier with them."

McGregor and the other officers on the bridge of the Indefatigable were quiet for a moment, thinking about the price their fellow officers paid for delaying the Peacekeeper fleet. They bought the primary fleet valuable time to mobilize and get here.

Finally, McGregor broke the silence. "What's the last known ETA for the enemy's arrival?"

"Fourteen hours," said Bradford.

"Good. Report to the Indefatigable ASAP. We need to go over the battle plan. McGregor out." The view screen blinked off, and McGregor turned to Hancock.

"Order all squadron commanders to report to flag ship ASAP," said McGregor.

"Aye, aye, sir," replied Hancock.

***

EAS Indefatigable. 16:00 hours EST.

"Before we begin," said McGregor. "General Bradford, if you would be so good as to give us a run down on the latest intelligence in regards to what the Peacekeepers are coming at us with?"

McGregor, the fleet's squadron commanders, General Bradford, Captain Crichton, and Commander Sun-Crichton were all gathered in the briefing room of the Indy to go over the plans for deployment and strategy for the upcoming engagement with the Peacekeepers. The enemy was now a little over 13 hours away from Signet colony.

"Before Peabody's squadron was destroyed," began Bradford. "they did send us the latest information they had gathered on Peacekeeper ship deployment. Apparently, the fleet numbers, or rather numbered, 50 command carriers total, two of which have since been destroyed by Peabody's ships. Twelve of these command carriers were sent in the direction of the Minbari border. That leaves 36 carriers heading for us."

"That means a ground force of at least 100,000 troops on board those ships," said McGregor. "Is that correct, Commander?" he asked Aeryn.

"Yes, sir."

"Our total force facing them is made up of 55 destroyers and heavy cruisers, Signet Base's defense grid, and 35,000 troops," said McGregor.

"So far," began General Chan, the youngest of the generals present, "for every one of their carriers we have destroyed, they have destroyed two of our ships."

"That makes our two sides about even in most ways," said John.

"Agreed," said McGregor. "We need to deploy our ships to make best use of the strengths each class of warship has to offer." He activated a holographic projector, and brought up a schematic of the fleet and the planet. "This is what we are going to do. We'll divide the fleet up into three sections, each one separated based on class of ship. The Warlock class destroyers are the most heavily armed and armored ships in the fleet. They are also the fastest and most maneuverable. I will take command of that section of the fleet. The Warlocks will mix it up with the command carriers in direct assault, with the goal of destroying as many of them as we can." He looked up at General Kemal, a 45 year old officer from Turkey. "General, you will take command of the Omega destroyers. I want your 25 destroyers to form a wall of ships between the Peacekeeper fleet and Signet. Deploy in 5 sections of five ships, spread out in a wide deployment. Your job will be to pour in fire on any Peacekeeper ships that head for the planet, stop them any way you can."

"Very good, sir," replied Kemal.

"General Chan," he said, turning to the younger General from China. "You will take command of the ten Hyperion heavy cruisers. I want you to deploy your ships in various stations in orbit around the planet. Your task will be to shoot down any Peacekeeper ships that may get past Kemal's forces. Hopefully, it will be just Marauders and Prowlers, or some other larger transports that get through trying to land ships. But a carrier or two may bust through, so be prepared to deal with them."

"Yes, sir," replied Chan.

"Our goal is to do everything humanly possible to keep the Peacekeepers from setting foot on Signet. General Erwin Rommel said before the allied invasion of Normandy that the battle would have to be won on the beaches, not letting the enemy get a foothold. That is our task here."

"Sir," said Kemal. "What is to guarantee that the Peacekeepers will not simply flank our wall of ships?"

"You'll have to be prepared to alter deployment if any enemy ships try to get around you," replied McGregor. "But they should head right for you. Commander Crichton, if you could explain."

"Peacekeeper commanders typically will make a frontal assault against the enemy," said Aeryn. "Command carriers are built with this in mind. They are massive, heavily armed warships that are made to overrun and pulverize enemy opposition."

"They aren't very graceful," added John. "But, like elephants, they don't have to be. They are big enough to run over you instead of going around you."

"I see," said Kemal. "Our job will be to stop the elephants before they can trample us."

"Hopefully the Warlocks can whittle them down to size before they get to you," said McGregor. "Make the odds a little better. If the enemy does manage to land, we fight them tooth and nail to drive them off of Signet quickly. General Bradford, you will command all ground forces and instillations."

"Yes, sir," said Bradford.

"We stop them here, ladies and gentlemen," said McGregor. "For us and for the Peacekeepers, this will be 'the longest day'."

****

Uninhabited Planet. System Bravo 40. 16:30 hours EST.

Lt. Joe Taylor had been stuck on this planet with a bad tempered, wounded Peacekeeper for two days now. He had managed to treat Officer Yalon Marst's wounds, but nothing seemed to improve her demeanor. Even after he had treated her wounds, not to mention found fire wood in the form of small bushes spread out on the grassland, cooked meals, and found some limited supplies of water, Marst had shown little in the way of gratitude.

Taylor handed a plate of food to Marst. She took it without a word, sniffed it, and then began to eat. "Your welcome," said Taylor sarcastically. He sat down and began to eat his food. Stubborn Texan that he was, Taylor decided to make another attempt at talking with his companion.

"So, how are you feeling?" asked Taylor.

"My wounds are healing," said Marst coldly, in between bites of food. "Your first aid skills do seem to have been adequate to the task."

"Well, is that a compliment I heard?" asked Taylor. "My God, is it some special holiday when the high and mighty Peacekeepers are actually allowed to compliment those lower life forms that save their asses."

"Save our asses!" yelled Marst. "I wouldn't be here if it wasn't for you shooting me down."

"Well, if you and your jackbooted friends hadn't invaded our space, then neither of us would have been here now!"

"You will thank us one day, Human, for bringing peace and order to your chaotic world!"

"BULL SHIT!" yelled Taylor. "That is the biggest ration of bull shit I have ever heard! Bring order to chaos. Honey, you and your people are HARBINGERS of chaos. You cause it, then pacify it when it suits your own ends! You expect us to thank you for that! You're nuts, lady. N-U-T-S, NUTS!"

"Frell off, Human!"

"Oh, why didn't I just shoot you when I found you?!" yelled Taylor. "Oh, no, I had to let a little thing like decency get in the way. Next time I'll know better." He said the last part to no one in particular. The two enemies, now forced together, sat and ate in silence, both frustrated with the other's company.

*****

EAS Indefatigable. 18:00 hours EST.

John Crichton sat in his quarters, thinking about the chain of events that had brought him here. He thought about how Earth was now in danger from the Peacekeepers, his greatest fear come true. Even though it was not the Earth he grew up in, not the Earth of his own time, it was still the home of his people. John couldn't help but wonder if all of this wasn't his fault, if he hadn't brought all of this on the Earth Alliance by his trip to Babylon 5 20 years before. "So many what ifs," he thought.

The door to the room opened, and Aeryn stepped through it. She smiled at her husband, and walked over to sit next to him. "You are lost in thought," said Aeryn. "I can tell."

"When did you get so smart?" asked John.

"I've always been smart," said Aeryn. "Well, maybe not always, but...living with you for over twenty cycles has given me a unique insight into your moods." She put her hand on John's shoulder. "Tell me."

"I can't help but think, Aeryn, that this is all my fault. That I brought the Earth Alliance and the Peacekeepers into contact with one another."

"John, it would have happened eventually. Have you ever thought that maybe by our being here that we have helped your people be better prepared for meeting the Peacekeepers on even terms?"

"Yeah, I guess, I don't know."

"You once told me 'no what ifs,'" she said. "Follow your own advice."

Aeryn brought her face to John's and kissed him lightly on the lips. "Thanks, baby," said John.

"Your welcome," said Aeryn. "Actually, there is something I need to talk to you about. I've been meeting with General McGregor, and I told him that....John, I want to command the Earth Force fighter squadrons in this battle, at least the ones going in with the Warlock destroyers."

"NO!" said John. "Absolutely not! Aeryn, its too dangerous!"

"I am an experienced combat pilot, John, and I have knowledge of Peacekeeper fighter combat techniques that could be invaluable in coordinating our fighters. I am needed out there."

"You are needed on the bridge, with McGregor, advising him. You are needed with ME!"

"John, I have already approved this with McGregor, but I wanted to have your blessing as well."

"No," said John. "I outrank you....I order you not to."

"General McGregor will override you," said Aeryn. "I am going whether you approve or not. I would much rather have your approval." They were silent for a moment. "Please," she said.

John sighed, and nodded his head. "Alright," he said. "Dammit, I should know not to argue when your mind is made up."

"Yes, you should," she said with a smile.

John looked deeply into Aeryn's eyes. "I love you more than life itself," he said. "You had better come home to me when this fight is over."

"I intend to," said Aeryn. They embraced each other, and kissed each other passionately. The couple then moved to the nearby bed, and spent several hours loving each other before being plunged into the fire of battle.

************************************

Chapter 6: The Longest Day

*

(Day 6)

Signet System.

EAS Indefatigable. 05:00 hours EST.

The ships of General McGregor's fleet were in position for the defense of Signet Colony against the coming Peacekeeper assault. Aboard those ships, around 30,000 Earth Force Officers and Crewman watched, waited, and prayed, as did another 35,000 troops on the planet below.

Aboard the Indy, General McGregor stood and watched the viewscreen, doing his best to present the appearance of a calm man, while he was in reality battling the rattlers in his stomach. He had never commanded a force so huge before, and certainly not in combat. Robert had led men and women in combat before, but never at these kind of odds and stakes. In his mind, he said a quick and silent prayer that General Robert E. Lee had often said before going into battle.

" 'Blessed be the Lord my strength that teaches my fingers to fight, and my hands to war,'" he thought. "Amen."

Just then, Captain Hancock spoke. "Sir," said the Captain. "Scanners report hostiles entering the system. Orders?"

McGregor activated ship-to-ship communications. "Generals Kemal and Chan, do you read?"

"Online, sir," said Kemal.

"Ready, sir," said Chan.

"Throw down the gauntlet," said McGregor. "Deploy your forces. Command to all Warlock destroyers, form up and move to attack vector. Captain Hancock, take us into the fire."

McGregor watched the scanner display, and the multiple blips that appeared on the screen indicating Peacekeeper warships. "Alright, you sons of bitches," thought McGregor. "You want a war. I'll give you a war!"

**

Admiral Scorpius' Command Ship. Same time.

"Sir," said Braca to Scorpius. "We have detected a large number of Earth Force warships in the Signet system."

"To be expected, Captain," said Scorpius. "How many?"

"At least 50, possibly more," replied Braca.

"How are they deployed?" asked Scorpius, as he and Braca walked over to a viewscreen tactical display.

"They are deployed in three main sections," said Braca. "Their twenty largest warships are moving to intercept us and launching fighters. Twenty-five of their ships, the ones I believe they call Omega class destroyers, are deployed in a staggered/fixed formation between us and the planet. Ten more smaller warships are orbiting the planet itself."

"I see," said Scorpius. "Interesting. The Human commander is combining a strategy of both attack and defense. Creative, to say the least."

"What are your orders, sir?" asked Braca.

"Have all carriers commence with a full force frontal attack," he said. "But tell them to be prepared to shift lines of attack at my command."

"Yes, sir," said Braca.

***

The twenty Warlock class destroyers of McGregor's fleet closed ranged with the in-coming Peacekeeper command carriers. Both sides had since launched their fighters, and they to were closing to do battle with each other.

Leading the fighters from McGregor's ships was Commander Aeryn Sun-Crichton. She activated her communications system. "All squadrons, this is Commander Crichton," she said. "Follow the battle plan outlined in your briefings. Do not engage the enemy in formation, attack them one on one, allowing you to take advantage of our superior maneuverability." She waited a few moments, and then gave the command. "All ships, break and attack."

Like a giant swarm of insects, the 840 Starfuries launched from the Warlock destroyers scattered, and moved in on individual targets. The Earth fighters began one-by-one to open fire on the enemy Prowlers, busting up their formations and forcing the Prowlers to break and defend themselves individually. Stafuries and Prowlers danced across the starscape in deadly tangos, engaging and destroying one another in games of tag. Earth Force and Peacekeeper fighters exploded as fighters from each side found their targets.

The 20 destroyers in McGregor's section closed on the Peacekeepers and opened fire with the plasma cannons. The enemy carriers were deployed in three lines of twelve carriers each. The first line of Peacekeeper ships took most of the brunt of the bombardment from McGregor's destroyers, and returned fire on the Earth ships with their frag cannons. The Warlock destroyers increased to flank speed, and charged the Peacekeeper carriers until they were at point blank range. McGregor's ships then opened fire with their missile batteries and laser cannons, as the Peacekeepers responded with every frag cannon at their command. It became a pounding match as the Earth destroyers and Peacekeeper carriers reigned down murderous fire on one another.

The first casualty was one of McGregor's destroyers, the Titan, as she was pounded to bits by the Peacekeeper frag cannons. The Earth destroyers were not slowed down by the loss, and continued their assault against the enemy. As the two sides exchanged fire, four of the command carriers increased speed and moved to bust through McGregor's destroyers. Occupied with other carriers, the four enemy ships got through, pulverizing another one of McGregor's destroyers in the process, the Sophocles.

These four ships now closed on Kemal's wall of Omega class destroyers. As soon as the enemy vessels were in ranger, Kemal (on board his command ship, the Suleiman) gave the order for all ships to open fire. All twenty-five destroyers under Kemal's command opened fire simultaneously with plasma cannons and missile batteries, pounding away at the incoming Peacekeeper ships. To the Peacekeepers on those fours ships, it seemed as if a meteor shower of missiles and plasma fire streaked its way across space and crashed into their ships' defense screens. The forward most carrier of the group took the most severe punishment of the bombardment from Kemal's destroyers. It wasn't long before its screens collapsed and the ships exploded under the fire from the Omega destroyers. The remaining three ships returned fire with their frag cannons, sending fire cascading into the shields of Kemal's forces.

Meanwhile, McGregor's Warlock destroyers and the Peacekeeper carriers he faced engaged in their deadly pissing match with one another. The Indefatigable and four other ships (the Lexington, Ares, Foxfire, and Harpies) concentrated their fire on one of the carriers, blasting through its shields and sending a barrage of fire into its hull. The carrier's hull collapsed under the fire, and the ship exploded. McGregor then ordered all of his ships to concentrate their fire on one target at a time. His destroyers closed on another carrier and opened fire. The other carriers nearby closed in and attacked McGregor's destroyers, hoping to distract them. Another of McGregor's ships, the Nelson, was destroyed, but the Earth destroyers continued their attack on their target. The carrier fell under the fire from McGregor's ships, and they moved on to the next Peacekeeper target.

Kemal's forces destroyed another carrier of the group that had moved in on their formation. However, two more Peacekeeper ships joined the assault and laid waist to the Earth destroyers Gorgons and Charybdis. Earth destroyers and Peacekeeper carriers exchanged fire, as the Starfuries from Kemal's ships mixed it up with the Prowlers from the attacking carriers. Another Earth destroyer, the Orion, fell under fire from the Peacekeeper frag cannons, but another carrier was also destroyed by Kemal's forces.

****

Scorpius watched the battle unfold from his command ship. Things were not going well, as five of his ships were destroyed after only destroying six of the enemy ships. The Humans were putting up a determined wall of defense and an equally spirited attack. He decided that creative action must be taken to break the enemy's defenses.

He activated his comm link to the other ships. "Carriers 13, 27, 29, and 31: break from the attack and move around the flanks of the central section of Earth destroyers. Surround and destroy that section of ships. Carriers 4, 8, 9, and 12: standby to also move around the flanks of the enemy ships and proceed to the planet."

*****

McGregor's Warlock class destroyers were chewing up Peacekeeper carriers, as three more fell to their assault. But in the process, they were taking a beating, loosing the destroyers Pandora, Hades, MacArthur, Argus, and Tisiphone. Kemal's Omega class destroyers were holding off the Peacekeeper carriers (destroying another two carriers), but were also taking a beating in doing so. Four more destroyers from Kemal's section (Olympus, Charon, Achilles, and Geneva) fell under fire from the Peacekeeper frag cannons.

While the Earth destroyers were occupied with the ships they were directly engaged with, they didn't notice at first that four Peacekeeper carriers break from the rear formation of enemy ships and move around the two sides of the battle line. These forces, under the command of Fleet Captain Jani Atrios, moved to attack the section of Omega class destroyers from the rear. Atrios was an officer who rose through the ranks faster than most of her contemporaries due to her skill and ability to motivate those under her command. But she was also somewhat looked down upon by her fellow Fleet Captains for her tendency to show more compassion than most for those under her command, making many think her a weak Peacekeeper. Yet, it was this compassion that she showed for her people that made her a well loved commander and motivated her people to follow her anywhere.

"Fleet Captain," said her second in command, Lt. Meltra. "All ships are moving into striking positions."

"Good," she said. "Have all ships move to attack when we are in range and position."

"Yes, ma'm," said Meltra.

Aboard the Suleiman, Kemal observed the scene with a keen eye for detail. His group was doing the job of holding back the enemy ships, but it was a costly one. He had already lost seven of his ships for the four Peacekeeper carriers that they destroyed. Now, the scanners were reporting four more carriers that were apparently joining the other two currently before them in the assault.

He expected them to turn and fire, but they continued on their current course trajectory. Sensing danger, Kemal walked over to the tactical display and did some rough calculations of their trajectory in relation to the fleet. That's when he figured out what was going on. "Allah be merciful," he said to himself quietly. "All ships," he said into the comm. "Break formation. We are about to be flanked."

The Omega class destroyers in Kemal's section altered course to defend against a flank attack. Several of the destroyers came about to meet the new threat, as Atrios brought her carriers around and increased speed to get behind Kemal's group. She then gave the order to open fire, and the four Peacekeeper carriers under her command opened up with their frag cannons.

Now surrounded by six carriers, Kemal had his 18 ships move to attack the enemy ships to break through their ring. The ships from the two sides pounded away at each other, as another Earth destroyer, the Powell, fell under the fire from Peacekeeper forces. The wall of ships that Kemal's forces had formed now became a melee of Earth and Peacekeeper warships as both sides engaging each other at point blank range.

Seeing this occur, Scorpius ordered the second group of four carriers to proceed to the planet, destroy the forces defending it, and begin landing operations. Four more carriers from the rear Peacekeeper formation broke away and skirted the battle zone to proceed towards the planet.

On board the Indy, McGregor watched with horror as his wall of ships fell to confusion and left the door open for the Peacekeepers to move on Chan's section of Hyperions class cruisers in orbit around Signet. Just then, he received a communication from General Chan.

"Sir," said Chan. "Kemal's forces are taking a beating. Shall we break orbit and attack?"

"Negative," said McGregor. "Your primary duty is to defend Signet, and the enemy is sure to send something your way soon now. Defend that planet at all cost. Kemal's forces will have to fend for themselves."

"Aye, sir," replied Chan.

McGregor's destroyers continued to engage carrier after carrier, destroying two more of the behemoths, and loosing two more of his destroyers in the process. It was a primarily a fight between the big guns, since Commander Crichton and her fighters had drawn away the enemy Prowlers. Captain John Crichton stood on the bridge of the Indy with McGregor, and watched the scene play out before them.

"Sir," said Crichton. "Can't we send any forces to help Kemal?"

"No," said McGregor. "As you can see, we're a bit occupied at the moment with our own problems. Kemal is going to have to fend for himself. So much for the Peacekeepers keeping to frontal assaults. Any explanation for that, Captain?"

"None, sir," said Crichton, shaking his head. "The Peacekeepers don't normally operate this way. They don't go around to the back door, they kick in the front door."

"Then the Peacekeeper fleet commander must not be your typical Peacekeeper," said McGregor.

It was then that the realization hit Crichton like a ton of bricks. "Oh, frell," thought Crichton. "How could I have been so stupid? Of course it would be him. It has to be."

"Captain," said McGregor. "You look like someone just walked over your grave. What is it?"

Before Crichton could respond, Hancock broke in. "Sir, we just lost the Harpies. Four more carriers have broken formation and are heading towards Signet. The remaining carriers are moving between us and them."

"Dammit," said McGregor. "Have all Warlock destroyers push their attack, break through them. Signal Chan to expect company coming his way."

"Aye, sir," replied Hancock.

******

General Chan stood on the bridge of his command ship, the Amundsen. He watched the tactical display that indicated the silhouettes of four command carriers heading his way, flanked by flights of Marauders and Prowlers. Chan's ships had launched fighters, and were preparing to meet the enemy.

The odds did not look good for Chan's forces. Even with the help of the orbital defense grid and the fighters from Signet Base, it was still ten aging Hyperion class cruisers against four command carriers with full complement of Prowlers and Marauders. They had the dual job of stopping the carriers and preventing the Marauders from landing Peacekeeper ground troops.

Chan activated ship-to-ship communications. "Chan to fleet," said the General. "The defense grid and fighters from Signet will be charged with destroying any Peacekeeper vessel that tries to land on Signet. The Coeus and Roosevelt will assist with this task. The other eight ships will move and engage the enemy carriers."

Eight of the Hyperion class cruisers formed up to meet the incoming carriers. When the enemy was in range, Chan gave the order to open fire. The plasma cannons from his ships released the destructive force on the enemy carriers, while the Peacekeepers returned fire with their frag cannons. Meanwhile, waves of Marauders and Prowlers attempted to make entry into Signet's atmosphere, but were mowed down by fire from the orbital defense platforms, starfuries, and two of the Earth cruisers.

Kemal's forces were in a desperate struggle with the command carriers that surrounded them. Atrios closed the noose around her enemies, destroying two more destroyers as her carriers closed in. Now down to fifteen destroyers, Kemal realized that his ships had to bust through the ring of carriers surrounding them. He ordered all ships to concentrate their fire on one of the carriers. The destroyers formed up and closed in on the carrier with the weakest defense screen and opened fire.

The carriers came about and opened fire with every gun they had. Another destroyer, the Aegis, exploded under Peacekeeper fire. Another destroyer, the Archimedes, suffered a severe hit to her midsection, causing the ship to loose rotation and go zero gravity. The Captain of the Archimedes saw an opening in the defense screen of the carrier they were attacking. His ship was in the best position to take advantage of it, and he ordered the Archimedes to ramming speed. The ship took fire from the Peacekeeper ships, and explosions ripped through her hull, but they were not enough to stop the Archimedes on its last mission.

Fleet Captain Atrios watched from the command deck of her carrier as the Archimedes crashed into the command carrier it had targeted, both ships exploding in a ball of fire and debris. She was stunned by the bravery of these aliens, who were willing to sacrifice themselves for each other so selflessly. It would be a sight she would remember in the days ahead.

Kemal's fleet now had an opening, and escaped the noose of Peacekeeper ships. The thirteen remaining Omega class destroyers regrouped to face Atrios' battle group.

Things did not fare so well for Chan's Hyperion class cruisers. They were simply no match for four carriers, and the Peacekeepers were quickly pulverizing Chan's fleet. Four of the eight Hyperion cruisers that attacked the carriers had already fallen, and the Peacekeepers were now pounding through the shields of the Amundsen. Despite the best efforts of the other ships, Chan's command ship could not be saved and was destroyed. The five remaining Hyperion class cruisers were forced to retreat in the face of the forces arraigned against them.

McGregor watched the four carriers close on Signet, their Marauders moving into the atmosphere to land Peacekeeper ground troops. The thing that McGregor's forces had most tried to prevent had come true. The Peacekeepers would set foot on Signet. Now, it would be up to the ground forces to prevent them from getting a foothold. But in case that failed, McGregor was already developing a new plan of to implement if all else failed.

*********************************

Chapter 7: Scorched Earth

*

Signet Colony. 11:50 hours EST.

A formation of ten Marauders landed on Signet in a valley just outside the colony's main city. Out of these Marauders came 100 Peacekeeper ground troops, charging out at a run in full battle gear. A Lieutenant commanding the unit formed up the Peacekeepers in formation. They formed a staggered formation of ten lines of ten soldiers each. At the Lieutenant's command, they moved forward towards the city.

These men were one of four units that would make up the initial assault group. The four hundred Peacekeepers in the initial group would be followed by 10,000 more troops after a landing zone was secured.

The unit moved forward speedily, making their way across the ground at a break neck pace. About a mile ahead of them, 40 Earth Force soldiers waited in a camouflaged entrenchment line. They waited until the Peacekeepers came into range, and then opened fire with their PPG rifles. Several of the Peacekeepers fell to the ground as the rest of them returned the fire with their pulse rifles. The battle began.

As the rest of the units of Peacekeepers came down in landing fields around the city, more and more Earth Force soldiers were deployed to defend it. The Earth Force troops defending the city were supported by laser cannon batteries, missile launchers, and low flying air assault craft. The Peacekeepers deployed Prowlers to support the ground forces with strafing runs and to take out the Earth Force air assault craft.

Although powerful machinery was brought into the fight, this was primarily an infantryman's battle. Peacekeepers killing Earth Force soldiers with their pulse rifles, while the Earth Force troops blasted Peacekeepers with their PPG rifles and machine guns. The fighting was in close quarters and very brutal. Peacekeepers would charged an Earth Force defensive line as the Human soldiers mowed them down with their weapons. But as wave after wave of Peacekeepers attacked, eventually they got to the line. Then, the battle became hand-to-hand, as Peacekeepers lunged at Earth Force soldiers with their battle knives and buts of their pulse rifles. The Earth Force soldiers defended themselves with rifle and bayonet, and fighting knives.

Peacekeeper and Human fell on the same field, their blades cutting into each other, their hands around each others' throats. The field became strewn with the bodies of Peacekeepers with PPG burns in their chest and Earth Force soldiers with the bodies blasted apart by pulse rifle blasts. Although the battle was hard fought, the Peacekeepers slowly began to get the upper hand and pushed through the defenses of the city.

**

15:00 hours EST

In orbit, McGregor reformed the remaining ships in his fleet. The Peacekeeper command carriers had broken through his lines of defense, and were now closing on Signet. Within and hour, the General knew that the Peacekeepers would have the entire planet surrounded. He still had twenty-six destroyers and cruisers under his command, which could stand a fighting chance against 23 command carriers. But McGregor also saw how the battle was progressing on the ground, and he knew in his heart that Signet was lost.

He gave the order that he was dreading. "Communications, get me a channel to the entire fleet and to Signet Base."

"Channel open," an officer replied.

"This is General Robert McGregor. Your signal is buster. I say again, your signal is buster." That was the signal to evacuate the planet. "We have to buy some time to evacuate our forces from the ground. All ships will commence an attack on the Peacekeeper fleet, to temporarily draw them off to give time for our transports to evacuate all personnel. Signet Base-some kind of delaying action must be fought to delay the advancing Peacekeeper troops as long as possible. General Bradford, I leave that in your hands. Let's get this done, and leave the Peacekeepers with a bloody nose they won't soon forget. McGregor out." He deactivated communications, and turned to Captain Hancock.

"Captain," he said. "Get me the Captains of the Foxfire, Caesar, Ares, and Sydney on secure link. I have special orders for them."

***

General Bradford stood in the briefing room of his headquarters looking over a live action holographic map of the battlefield. The Peacekeepers were coming in all directions around the city, and he was trying to figure out the best place to make a last ditch defense to secure the evacuation.

Finally, he made a decision. "We'll make an attack towards the Peacekeepers advancing on the Northern airfield," he said in his thick Scottish accent. "That will be the best airfield to defend for an evacuation. One regiment, 1000 men, will make the attack." He looked up at his regimental commanders, and all of them knew what was coming. "Sufficed to say, the casualties in the unit fighting the holding action will be extreme. This must be a showy attack, one with a lot of pomp and circumstance, one that will distract the Peacekeepers long enough for the evacuation. Are there any volunteers?"

"Sir," said one of the officers. It was Colonel Stuart, the commander of the 44th Infantry Regiment. Known as the "Highlanders", the men of the regiment were made up mostly of recruits from Scotland, as well as other parts of the British Isles. Stuart continued in his Scottish enunciated verbage. "The Highlanders would be honored to make the attack. If any regiment here can make more of a show of themselves, let them step forward."

None of the other officers could respond, knowing that the Highlanders were a regiment of great renown for their courage as well as their class in battle. Bradford nodded his head. "Very well," said Bradford. "But since this attack will be made by Highlanders, its only right that I go with you. I will lead the attack myself."

"But sir..." objected one of the officers.

"Signet Base was my installation," interrupted Bradford. "I will be the one who will lead the last defense of it. Colonel Legrasse," he said, turning to one of his officers, "you will supervise the evacuation."

"Yes, sir," said Legrasse.

****

"Are these orders understood?" said McGregor into his link headset. The officers he was speaking with all replied in the affirmative. "Good. McGregor out." The General then turned to Captain Hancock.

"Captain," he said. "Have the Indy's missile batteries load with nuclear payload. The use of nuclear weapons has been authorized."

Hancock stood stunned, but then asked slowly. "Sir, what's...the target."

"Signet Colony, coordinates targeted on the largest concentration of Peacekeepers."

"What?" asked Crichton in amazement. "You're going to fire on our own colony! Sir, how..."

"Its not ours anymore Crichton," said McGregor. "We've lost it. But we're going to make sure the Peacekeepers have bought nothing but scorched earth."

*****

16:30 hours EST.

One thousand Earth Force soldiers formed up in long lines by companies on the field near the North airfield of the Signet Base. At the head of the unit was General Bradford, accompanied by Colonel Stuart. At the center of the line were several bag pipe players.

Bradford came before the regiment, and turned to command them. "Highlanders!" he yelled. "Forward!" The regiment advanced in lines, as the bag pipes played the tune "Scotland the Brave". The one thousand soldiers of the regiment advanced slow and steadily at first, swarming over the hill to meet the Peacekeepers.

On the other side of the hill, the advancing Peacekeepers stopped as they heard a strange sound coming from over the next hill. Within a few moments, they saw movement coming over the hill. The movement became better defined, and the sight of 1000 Earth Force soldiers in lines of advance fell before their eyes. They marched to the sound of the strange music that filled their ears.

General Bradford yelled "charge!", and the 1000 men broke into a full force frontal assault. Stunned at first, the front line of Peacekeepers attempted a belated defense, but soon turn and ran before the face of the oncoming rush of Earth Force troops. The Highlanders kept charging until they came upon the main force of Peacekeepers, about 5000 strong. The two sides opened fire on each other, and the Peacekeepers countercharged until the two forces were a mix-up mass of struggling forms.

******

18:00 hours EST.

General McGregor received a report stating that all personnel and prisoners had been evacuated from Signet. The 44th Infantry Regiment's delaying action had been successful, though extremely costly. Of the 1000 men who went into the attack, about 150 returned. Two of those men who did not return were General Bradford and Colonel Stuart.

The Earth Destroyers had fought a tough delaying action against the Peacekeeper fleet, taking out another command carrier in the process. However, the Humans too lost another ship, the Zethus. Now, the Earth Fleet began its retreat, except for five of the destroyers, including the Indefatigable.

Four of these five remaining destroyers took up stations near the planet, while the other headed for the local hyperspace jumpgate. Watching from the command deck of his carrier, Scorpius saw these ships move into position, and pondered what they could be up to. A sudden realization as to what was happening came into his head, and he showed a rare expression of panic.

"STOP THEM!" he yelled. "BRACA! Order all ships to stop those destroyers. NOW!"

But Scorpius' orders were too late. The four destroyers around the planet each fired four missiles towards the now evacuated colony. When the missiles impacted, numerous thermonuclear explosions appeared on the surface of the planet, annihilating the facilities of Signet Colony and the Peacekeeper forces that had just secured it. Meanwhile, the fifth destroyer launched its missiles towards the local jumpgate, sending it to its destruction in a ball of flame.

As the explosions still rocked the surface of Signet, McGregor's fleet jumped into hyperspace, leaving the Peacekeepers with their hard won "prize". Scorpius stood and watched as the nuclear mushroom clouds enveloped the Colony's main city and base, and eyed the remaining debris left from the now destroyed jump gate. He growled with frustration, and could feel the cooling rod in his skull begin to overheat. Scorpius stormed off of the command deck, searching for his nurse.

*******

Aboard her command carrier, Fleet Captain Jani Atrios also viewed the carnage left by the final nuclear assault. Her second in command, Lt. Meltra, walked up slowly behind her.

"It doesn't feel like much of a victory does it," he said quietly. They both viewed the nuclear eradiated colony on the planet, and the wreckage strewned space nearby. The debris left from destroyed Earth Force and Peacekeeper warships mingled in the field of carnage.

"Don't say things like that too loudly, Lieutenant," said Atrios. Other officers would have had Meltra executed for such remarks, but she respected such honesty from her officers. Atrios always knew that she could trust her people to tell her the truth. "But I agree. This is a hollow victory. Fourteen command carriers lost, nearly 100,000 killed. And all we have to show for it is a destroyed colony that is useless as a base."

"Ma'm," said Meltra. "What if the Humans fight for every colony like this? What happens when we get to Earth?"

"I don't know," said Atrios. "It seems that in our victory, we may have seen the instrument of our future defeat."

********

Aboard the Indefatigable. 21:00 hours EST.

General McGregor sat in his quarters, looking over the casualty reports with a sense of depression the likes of which he has never known. His fleet went in with a force of 55 destroyers and cruisers, and came out of it with a force of 25. The total casualties were around 35,000 killed, thousands more wounded. The list of destroyed Earth warships scrolled across the screen on his desk. Harpies, Pandora, Sophocles, Sun Tzu, Titan, Triton, Hades, MacArthur, Nelson, Argus, Tisiphone, Orion, Zethus, Gorgons, Charybdis, Olympus, Charon, Achilles, Geneva, London, Powell, Archimedes, Cerberus, Aegis, Amundsen, Phobos, De Gaulle, Deimos, and Uranus.

Among the casualties were distinguished Captains, men who he had known as junior officers, some of whom had directly served under him. They had all served under him when McGregor was Chairman of the Joint Chiefs. Among those killed were Generals Bradford and Chan, both flag officers who had rose through the ranks for their individual skill and ability. McGregor himself had approved Chan's promotion to General when he was Chairman, part of one of his favorite duties in that position. Now, they were numbered with so many dead. He thought about the fact that they had died only to loose Signet to the Peacekeepers. The fact that the colony and its jumpgate were now destroyed, thus handing the Peacekeepers a useless prize, did not bring back those men.

Meanwhile, John Crichton laid on the bed of his quarters, thinking about what he now knew in his heart to be true. Scorpius was in command of the Peacekeeper fleet invading the Earth Alliance. It had to be him. He kicked himself mentally for not thinking about this possibility sooner.

Aeryn came out of the bathroom after just having a shower. She had led the Earth Force pilots effectively in battle, though many of their number were lost. McGregor had already put in Aeryn's name for a commendation for valor in the battle. She laid down next to her husband on the bed.

"Penny for your thoughts," she said, using one of John's Human expressions.

"I don't know why I didn't think of it sooner," he replied.

"Think of what?" she asked.

He turned, and looked at her. "Honey, think about the battle strategy the Peacekeeper fleet used. Was that at all typical of Peacekeeper combat tactics?"

"I've been thinking about that," said Aeryn. "It certainly wasn't. I've never seen Peacekeeper forces use that kind of strategy."

"That means that someone other than your typical Peacekeeper was in command," said Crichton. "Three guesses as to who it was."

A look of understanding came over Aeryn's face. "Scorpius," she said.

"Bingo," said John. "Old cadaver face himself. That son of a bitch has always wanted me, now he wants my world. I should have realized."

"John, there is no way you could have known," said Aeryn. "Have you told McGregor?"

"Yeah," said John. "He agrees with my suspicions, and has added it to his report to Earth Central. I just...I just can't help but wonder if I had thought of it before the battle, if...if things would have been different."

"No what if's, remember," she replied. "Look towards the future, and how we can use what we know in the battles to come."

"Yeah," said John. The two of them lay there for a long time until exhaustion finally kicked in. They then fell into a troubled sleep.

******************************

Chapter 8: Counterstrikes

*

(Day 7)

Earth Force Transport La Salle, bound for Cooke System. 10:00 hours EST.

Medical Technician Trayvar Rel finished the dressing on his patient's leg. He and his patients were among the Peacekeepers captured at the Battle of Signet. Rel was with a forward unit of Peacekeeper ground troops when they were ambushed by a unit of Earth Force troops. Now, Rel and the other prisoners were aboard an Earth Force transport bound for the Cooke System.

Trayvar Rel was a young man with blond hair and fair features. The Peacekeepers in his unit had always respected him because of his skill at treating injuries in the field. They looked to him again to treat their wounds from the brutal battle they had just completed.

"I'll come back in a few arns to check your dressing," said Rel to the man he just treated.

"Thanks, tech," said the Peacekeeper soldier.

The Peacekeepers were being held in groups of five in cells aboard the transport. Rel had just finished with the five in this room, so the guard let him out to go to the next cell. He had been surprised when the Humans had allowed him to treat the Peacekeeper wounded, even providing him with medical supplies. If the roles had been reversed, a Human med tech would never have been allowed the same.

As the guard escorted Rel down the corridor, they were stopped by an Oriental Human woman in an Earth Force uniform. "Excuse me," she said. "Are you the Peacekeeper medic treating your wounded?"

"Yes," said Rel apprehensively.

"Good," she said. "My name is Kumiko Takagi, Corpsman Third Class. I'm an Earth Force medic. I was wondering if you needed any assistance?"

"You are offering me help in treating Peacekeeper wounded?" asked Rel, perplexed.

"I'm a medic," she said. "Its my job to treat the sick and wounded. Would you do any different for Human wounded?"

"It would not be allowed by my superiors," Rel said. "As to your offer, I....I could use the help, but I'm not sure the Peacekeeper wounded would accept help from a Human medic."

"Convince them," she said. "Let's go."

The two of them walked down the corridor to the next cell.

**

Peacekeeper Fleet. Near the border of Minbari Space. Same time.

Fleet Captain Tralker Yusanan stood on the command deck of his carrier, eyeing the deployment of his fleet with an expert eye. Admiral Scorpius had given him command of the twelve Command Carriers sent to the border of Minbari space to keep Earth's ally at bay while Scorpius invaded Earth space.

Yusanan was a Peacekeeper officer known for his viciousness in battle and his cleverness at strategy. He would not only destroy his enemies, he also did his best to break and humiliate them. To Yusanan, no strategy was off limits as long as it ensured victory, even if it involved savagery and brutality that would appall civilized beings.

The Minbari border had been quiet. Yusanan had deployed his 12 carriers in formation within striking position of several Minbari colony worlds. If the Minbari made the slightest move to help the Humans, he would strike at those colonies. This, it was hoped, would cause the Minbari to redirect their forces to protect their own territory.

"Sir," said his second officer, Lt. Astaraus. "We are detecting a ship bearing just within Minbari territory."

"Can you identify it?" asked Yusanan.

"Scanners show it to be a Minbari War Cruiser, sir," said Astaraus.

"Just one," said Yusanan. "Curious. Scan for others."

"No other ships are detected, sir," said Astaraus. "It could have been sent on Reconnaissance."

"Hmm, too bad for them," said Yusanan. "Our first chance at a battle prize. Order Carriers 5, 7, and 9 to attack. Capture the enemy vessel if possible, destroy it if necessary."

"Sir, they could jump to hyperspace before our ships get there," countered Astaraus.

"Not if our carriers close quickly and efficiently," said Yusanan. "Now, if you will, stop your whining and give the order."

"Yes, sir," replied Astaraus.

The three carriers ordered into action increased speed to maximum, and moved rapidly towards the Minbari Cruiser. As the Peacekeeper ships closed on their target, the Minbari ship made no attempt to jump or run from the advancing threat. Yusanan watched the image of the Minbari ship on his screens, and of his advancing carriers. He was perplexed by the lack of concern that seemed to be shown by the Minbari Cruiser.

"Sir, carriers closing into firing position," reported Astaraus. "Enemy vessel is making no attempt to attack or retreat."

"What are they doing?" asked Yusanan of no one in particular.

He continued to watch as the carriers closed on the cruiser, and entered firing range. As Yusanan continued to watch, he noticed several disruptions forming in the fabric of space right on top of his carriers. Within less than a second, small explosions began to rock through the three carriers. Four hyperspace jump points opened up right on the coordinates occupied by the three carriers. These jump points ripped the three Peacekeeper ships apart, leaving nothing but shattered remains within a matter of moments.

Yusanan watched as four Minbari War Cruisers came out of the jump points through the wreckage of his carriers, and joined formation with the other cruiser. They then began to advance on the position of the nine remaining carriers of Yusanan's fleet.

The Peacekeeper Fleet Captain, barely able to contain his rage, screamed out his orders. "ALL CARRIERS! FULL FORCE ATTACK! ANNHILATE THOSE SHIPS!"

The carriers came to attack speed, and closed on the five Minbari Cruisers. But before they could get very far, hyperspace jump points formed all around Yusanan's fleet. Out of these jump points came 30 Minbari War Cruisers, all of them firing their beam weapons as they exited their jump points.

The Peacekeeper carriers and Minbari War Cruisers engaged each other with all of their weapons firing. The Peacekeepers found targeting the Minbari Cruisers difficult thanks to the Minbari stealth technology. Since the Minbari ships did not register on Peacekeeper scanners very well, they had to rely mainly on manual targeting. As the large warships engaged each other, Peacekeeper prowlers mixed it up with Minbari dart shaped fighters. The Prowler pilots ran into the same trouble the carriers did in targeting the Minbari fighters, and were being quickly overcome by their adversaries' superior numbers, speed, and maneuverability.

Two command carriers fell under the fire of the Minbari ships. Yusanan's fleet was able to take out one of the Minbari cruisers by focusing the fire of their frag cannons. But the odds were certainly not in their favor.

The two fleets battled each other for an hour. At the end of that hour, Yusanan saw seven of his nine command carriers fall, while only claiming six of the thirty-five Minbari ships destroyed. The combination of surprise, superior numbers, and Minbari stealth technology had won the battle for the Minbari. Now, in desperation, Yusanan tried to save what was left of his fleet.

"Order all remaining ships to concentrate their fire on one part of the Minbari line," said Yusanan. "We have to break out of here."

His two remaining carriers brought their frag cannons to bear on two of the Minbari Cruisers in a weak section of the line. They opened fire with every gun they had, blasting away at the Minbari's defense screens. The Minbari ships closed in on all sides, and sliced through the Peacekeeper defense screens with their beam weapons. But the Peacekeepers quick actions had bought them an escape route, as their concentrated fire destroyed the Minbari Cruisers they targeted.

"Full speed," said Yusanan. "Get us out of here!"

The two carriers made their way through the opening in the Minbari line, and increased speed to full Hetch speed to get away. But as they did, the other carrier with Yusanan's took heavy fire and was destroyed before it could get away. Yusanan's ship made it to full speed, and left the non-Hetch drive equipped Minbari ships far behind.

Yusanan now took a deep breath, and made a mental tally of what he had lost. Of the twelve carriers that were in his fleet, only his own was left. He had to make it back to the main fleet, but realized the Minbari would be tailing him through hyperspace the entire way. They had to find some way of evading the Minbari to survive.

"Lt. Astaraus," said Yusanan. "Are there any Minbari bases in the area that could monitor and report on our retreat vector?"

"Checking, sir," said Astaraus. After a few moments, he reported. "Yes, sir. There is a training base used by the enemy forces called Rangers. Its on a planet called Drathnor 2, about 10 arns away from here."

"We must get away unseen," said Yusanan. "Assign a detail of ten Marauders with full compliment to move on that planet on a stealth trajectory. Seize the Minbari base on that planet."

"And its occupants?" asked Astaraus.

"Silence them," said Yusanan coldly.

***

Uninhabited Planet. System Bravo 40. 13:00 hours EST.

For nearly a week, Lt. Joe Taylor and Officer Yalon Marst had somehow found a way to keep from killing one another. Her wounds were healing fast, and she was up and moving around now. Taylor felt it was time for her to start sharing some of the workload. Marst had other ideas.

"I am not taking orders from you, HUMAN!" yelled Marst.

"They are not orders, you stubborn BITCH!" replied Taylor. "They are SUGGESTIONS! Oh, I forgot. Peacekeepers don't understand the meaning of suggestions because they are the most fucking hard-headed beings in the whole damn UNIVERSE!"

"You should do the work, anyway," said Marst. "Considering that you are my prisoner."

Taylor burst out laughing. "What fantasy world are you living in? I am the one who captured you. I am the one with the gun. If anyone's a prisoner here, its YOU babe!"

"That will change when my comrades come for me," said Marst.

"When will that be?" asked Taylor. "Its been 5 days. Who knows what the hell is going on up there! No one probably even knows we are here." He sighed with frustration, and looked at Marst with a softer expression. "Look, Yalon. Can I call you Yalon?"

Marst noticed the change in tone, and cooled off a bit. "I prefer Officer Marst," she replied.

"Fine, Officer Marst," said Taylor. "Let's drop the hostility, call a truce. Neither of us are anywhere near any of our forces, and we can't contact them. We have a better chance of surviving to be rescued in the future if we work together. Look, we can talk about how to divide up the work. But, I think its only right that we both do it."

Taylor held out his hand. "What do you say? Truce?"

"Why are you holding out your hand?" asked Marst with confusion.

"Oh, sorry. Its an Earth Custom, when making an agreement. It's a gesture of goodwill. You shake the hand, if you are in agreement."

Marst stood stark still for a moment. She was debating in her mind what to do. Finally, she decided more could be gained from cooperation than conflict. The Peacekeeper raised her hand, took the Human's hand, and shook it.

"Truce," said Marst quietly.

****

Between Signet and Delphi Systems. 14:30 hours EST.

"Continue firing!" yelled Entilza Ivanova. "Keep pouring it on!"

The ten Victory class destroyers and twenty-five white stars in her fleet were attacking a Peacekeeper carrier. Badly outgunned, the carrier was quickly loosing the battle. The destroyers and White Stars of Ivanova's fleet were about to bust through its defense screen.

When that occurred, Ivanova gave the command she had been waiting to give. "All destroyers, fire main guns!"

The Victory class destroyers activated brought their main guns to full charge. On each destroyers, three energy beams converged together, and then sent their blast of destructive energy towards the carrier. Within moments, the carrier exploded into a fireball.

On board her command ship, the Excalibur, Ivanova watched the enemy ship explode on her forward view screens. Her second in command, Ranger Captain Lennock, a Minbari, spoke to her. "Main power off line. Fifty-five seconds to power build-up."

"As soon as we have main power back on line, make the jump to hyperspace," said Ivanova.

"Yes, Entilza," said Lennock.

Whenever the Victory class destroyers fired their main guns, they had to wait 60 seconds for their main power to build back up. The weapon was based on Vorlon designs, and was made to be used on ships with a much greater power reserve. Since sixty-seconds could be a lifetime in combat, the main guns were only used in ideal conditions.

As soon as power was built back up, Ivanova's fleet jumped back into hyperspace. Ivanova turned to the communications officer. "Get me the EAS Indefatigable. I want to speak to General McGregor."

Within a few moments, a channel was open. McGregor's face appeared on the screen. "Entilza," said McGregor in greeting.

"General," she replied. "We've got some news for you from our little rabbit hunting expedition towards Signet. The Peacekeepers seem to be moving in the direction of Delphi."

"Well," said McGregor. "That seems to answer the question as to whether they will be moving on Cooke, Ross, or Delphi. It would make sense. If they could secure Delphi, they could then be in a much better position to move on Ross. From there, they could move on Proxima 3. With Proxima in their hands, they could then move on Earth itself."

"We'll rendezvous with you at Delphi," said Ivanova.

"What about the Narn and Centauri?" asked McGregor

"The Narn have just arrived in Earth Alliance space," said Ivanova. "I'll send word to them to meet us there, but it will take them a few days. The Centauri are, sufficed to say, an open question at the moment. If they decide to intervene, they should be diverted from Myoto to Delphi when they arrive."

"I'll get word to Myoto base to relay the message," said McGregor. "By the way, I'm sending Aeryn over to your ship as your advisor. John's agreed to stay here with me."

Ivanova smiled. "Good, I could use her insight. And it'll be good to see her again."

"I'll see you at Delphi, Susan," said McGregor. "McGregor out." The communications screen blinked off.

"Tell the fleet to make best speed to Delphi," said Ivanova to Lennock.

"Yes, Entilza," he replied.

***********************************

Chapter 9: The Massacre

*

Ranger Training Facility. Drathnor 2. 24:00 hours EST.

Ranger Trainee Katherine McGregor was with two of her comrades, attempting to figure out what was going on. They had been in meditation when their instructor was called away on an urgent matter. He told them to continue their meditations before he left. That was half an hour ago, and since then the three trainees had begun to hear commotion in the hallways. This was followed by a blackout of the lights, and the sounds of shots.

Now, the three of them made their way through the corridors of the darkened training facility, trying to find out what was happening. They came across the body of a Ranger, a Drazi, laying on the ground. He had been shot. The three trainees pulled out their Minbari fighting pikes, and continued forward through the corridors.

They kept hearing sounds of struggle, gunfire, and shouting. But by the time they got there each time, all they found were a few more dead Rangers. After the third time this happened, they found another body with those of two more Rangers. The dead being was clothed in a black and red uniform, with a dark helmet covering his face. The other Rangers did not recognize the uniform, but Katie did.

"Peacekeepers," she whispered.

"How do you know?" asked one of her com