Okay, so I'm aware that a lot of stuff happened in that update, and much of it is probably connected. Willow's dad works for Neotech, which bought an asteroid that may have had a Shadow vessel on it, and Warren's a Neotech thug? Yep, I got no idea what it all means.



Then there's all the Psycorp stuff, and a supposedly dead uber badgirl, and whatever trouble Tara got into, I doubt it was a simple mugging, cause now she's way more powerful than before, and I hope you're gonna let us in on what the scars mean next time.



Another intriguing episode as usual, and as usual my brain hurts now.

-Cameron

---

What should I be but just what I am? - Edna St.Vincent Millay

Magical Implant? Obviously something had to have been done to her, especially since she was immobile. See, this is exactly why I read the end before the beginning when there's a cliffhanger warning. It sort of eases my confusion so I know what to expect. Although that didn't seem to work, 'cause I'm still confused.



My guess: Willow's father has no idea about Warren's activities (at least not all of them). And Tara's scars are perhaps recognizable to Willow, hence the gasp. Either that, or they look horrible. Thanks for the update.



Yvonne

Hmmm...(something about this fic just always make me go hmmm...)



So Neotech is trying to capture Willow, not kill her, and they didn't know she was a techno mage. So perhaps they want her because she has the implant and can control the Shadow vessel that allegedly have? Gotta wonder how much Daddy knows about this--is he totally clueless, or the evil mastermind?



Love the flirting and sweetness in this update. If Tara's still having weird flashes and more power than previously, maybe her implant wasn't removed. That may work to her advantage, I imagine, when Warren tries to kill her (oooh, I HATE that guy!). Can't wait for more!



-Cameron

---

What should I be but just what I am? - Edna St.Vincent Millay

Darn it you were too quick for me! I was right here ready to post about how I was wondering if Tara's scar was something to do with an implant and her writing (honestly, I was ), and here's another chapter explaining just that...



Not that I can really find it in my heart to complain about having another chapter to read. Willow and Tara are very cute together. And resourceful - they're making headway already.



I found Willow's idea of using the Shadowtech interesting - especially in light of the parallel with Lyta (who is, of course, wandering around with Vorlon modifications in her brain). Is Shadowtech inherently evil, or is it just a tool? I'm inclined towards the latter - but with the recognition that it's a powerful tool, and not easy to control.



So Neotech wants Willow - well, what they actually want is no doubt her Shadowtech, or perhaps (theorising) she's valuable to them because of her mastery of her Shadowtech. Do they consider Tara expendable because she doesn't use whatever her experience left her with? Or don't they know? If the latter, that could be a useful surprise - an 'ace in the hole', as General Lefcourt of the EAS Apollo would've said.



More please

Chris Cook

Through the Looking-glass

A Willow and Tara for every world.

I am ill for a few days and I come back to two updates; fab. Hmm the implants are interesting and you have to wonder about Willow's dad. Their interaction was great, very sweet. love this story can't wait for more.

Freddie is king

Shadows of the past

Author: Justin

Rating: pg-13

Summary: This is an Uber fic set in the Babylon 5 universe. A young techno mage and a telepath race to solve a mystery that threatens the galaxy

Notes: This story is set in the year 2267, 2 years after the Drakh released their plaque on the Earth.

Disclaimer: Willow & Tara and a lot of the other characters from this story belong to Joss Whedon/Mutant Enemy. Babylon 5 was created by J. Michael Straczynski

Feedback: yes please

Distribution: Anyone can take it, just let me know please



Chapter 8



Tara was woken up by her link beeping. With a groan she reached over to pick it up. Sticking it to her hand she hit the button saying, “Maclay here.”



“Ms Maclay, It's captain Lochley. We need to see you in C and C.”



Suppressing a groan, Tara said, “I'll be there right away.”



“Also, do you know where Ms Rosenberg is?”



Tara glanced over at the woman sleeping next to her and smiling answered, “She's with me.”



“Good, we need to see her as well.”



Tara woke up Willow, who asked in a sleepy voice, “What's wrong?”



“Sweety, they want to see in the control room.”



Willow groaned before muttering, “Well whatever it is it'd better be something important, like the universe is about to end.”



Tara gave Willow a crooked smile, “You never know, it might be.”



***



When they got to the control room Captain Lochley and Zack were waiting there for them.



“Thank you both for coming. This is a transmission we received from a distant mining colony.” She hit a button and a image of a space station appeared on the screen. For a while nothing happened, then a the spidery form of a Shadow Vessel rippled into view, then another, then a third. After a few seconds there were five Shadow Vessels on the screen. A squadron of fighters approached them but they were soon destroyed. The Shadow Vessels then turned towards the station.



“This isn't right,” Willow muttered.



“Yeah, there are ten thousand people in that colony,” Zack said.



“No, I didn't mean... Really, ten thousand? That's terrible.” Willow took a moment to collect her thoughts, “I mean the Shadows don't fight like this. Usually they use other races. When they do attack they destroy the target quickly then leave, they don't let themselves get filmed like this.”



“Maybe since the Vorlon aren't around they think they can attack more openly,” Tara suggested.



Willow shrugged, “You may be right.” But she still looked troubled.



“Well anyway, this is now more than just one ship,” Captain Lochley said, “At the moment Tessa is talking to the president.”



“Actually I just finished talking to him,” Tessa said as she approached them, “He's going to send a White Star to investigate the matter.”



“What can we do?” Tara asked, wondering why they had been asked to come.



“I'm going to be overseeing the investigation. I'd like the two of you to accompany me.” When Willow and Tara both agreed she said, “Excellent, well the ship will be here to pick us up early tomorrow.”



Willow was starting to leave when Zack called her over, “Ms Rosenberg, I wanted to let you know that we got in touch which the colonies that had warrants out for your arrest and found that they have no record of those warrants. We're still looking for an explanation as to what happened.”



Willow nodded, “So I'm not under arrest any more?”



“I think that goes without saying. I'd like to apologise for the inconvenience it caused.”



Willow just shrugged, “I better go get ready for the trip.”



***



While Willow was talking to Zack, Tara approached Tessa saying, “There was something I wanted to talk to you about before we go.”



“Go on.”



“Have you heard of a telepath called Lyta Alexander?” She was surprised to see Tessa smile at this, “What?”



“I met her a couple of times. When she first escaped from the psycorp she took refuge with the Mars resistance, then during the civil war she was with the group that Sheridan sent to Mars to coordinate our efforts against President Clarke. We didn't always get on but I was sorry to hear of her death. Why do you ask?”



“I'm not sure that she's dead. I'm sure I saw her on the station.”



“No, that's not possible. She died during the telepath war. There's no way it could have been...”



“But...” Tara started to interrupt.



“Unless, it could have been someone who looked like her,” Tessa went on, “maybe as a result of surgery or a clone, or it might even have been someone in a chameleon web.”



“But why?”



“There are elements within the Earth gov who are trying to disrupt the alliance.”



“I've seen the reports in the news, they say the plague isn't real.”



“That's the least of it. I've been keeping an eye on them, and I suspect that they're being supported by high ranking members of the psycorp.”



“But why Lyta?”



“That I don't know... yet.”



Tara nodded. Seeing that Willow had finished with Zack she moved to catch up with her.



***



After leaving C&C Willow and Tara split up to go their quarters. Tara quickly put some clothes in a bag and then set off for Willow's quarters. In her hurry she almost bumped into a young man who was coming the other way.



“Excuse me,” Tara said, as she started to move around him.



The young man smiled in a pleasant fashion then asked, “Ms Maclay? I was just coming to see you.”



“You were? What do you want?”



For some reason the young man seemed to find that comment amusing. “That's what I was going to ask you.”



***



Two rangers, Lenny and Karl, were hurrying to the docking bay when Lenny stopped saying, “I think I just need to visit the little rangers room.”



“Well hurry up, they won't wait for us.”



Lenny quickly entered the cubicles. He had just entered one of the cubicles and lowered his trousers when he heard a PPG being charged.



***



Karl looked up as Lenny came out of the toilets, “Everything okay?”



“Sure, now come on, we don't want them to leave without us.”



TBC

--

"There are some days that you just can't get rid of a bomb" - Batman: The Movie

Well that ended up in a much less happy place than it started. My brain's too fried right now to do much analyzing, but it's interesting that someone is trying to make it appear that the Shdows are attacking (unless they actually are) and someone is making it appear that Lyta is still alive (unless she actually is).



So is that Warren with Tara at the end (grrrr...)? I guess it's too much to expec two rangers named Lenny and Karl to investigate a weapon being charged in the vicinity.



You mentioned in an earlier response that Tara can take care of herself, so I'm looking forward to getting a look at her powers in action.



-Cameron



Edited to add: I just saw your post in the 'updates thread' and I hope you notice that I didn't say 'hmmm' once this time! (tho I did think it once or twice). I hope the 'grrr' makes up for it.

---

What should I be but just what I am? - Edna St.Vincent Millay

Edited by: tarawhipped at: 10/19/04 6:42 am

Uh-huh, methinks someone's got one of those changeling thingies. And they're going to sneak along - I bet, just to make everyone's life difficult, White Stars can't scan themselves for radiation the same way B5 can, to pick up the changeling.



Karl and Lenny



As for Tara and her mysterious visitor (is it Warren? I think that'd count as more evidence that these 'Shadows' aren't up to the standards of the real thing, just like getting filmed in that attack, or missing when they fired at Buffy's ship way back then. Cause Warren's just not in the same league as Morden, Morden was cool. And evil, of course, but cool nonetheless) - normally when That Question gets asked it isn't a prelude to an attempted mugging, so I'm not sensing Tara's in any immediate danger. However if the answer is something 'they' think is useful, Tara could be in a lot more danger... and just because Tara's a nice person doesn't mean she's not in danger. Granted, Londo wasn't nice, but neither was G'Kar (he wanted to carve bones into flutes, darn it), and he didn't meet Morden's standards - who says the opposite can't be true?



Assuming everything goes okay, will Tara be travelling with Willow in her ship? Lots of cool stuff to see (and do) in one of those, I'm guessing

Chris Cook

Through the Looking-glass

A Willow and Tara for every world.

TaraWhipped: Thanks for the feedback. I'll just say that that wasn't Warren that Tara was talking to.



Artemis:

Quote:

---

(is it Warren? I think that'd count as more evidence that these 'Shadows' aren't up to the standards of the real thing, just like getting filmed in that attack, or missing when they fired at Buffy's ship way back then. Cause Warren's just not in the same league as Morden

---

You're right there. There might be something strange going on with the Shadows in this story, but they haven't quite sunk to the level of working with one of the three stooges.

Quote:

---

However if the answer is something 'they' think is useful, Tara could be in a lot more danger... and just because Tara's a nice person doesn't mean she's not in danger. Granted, Londo wasn't nice, but neither was G'Kar (he wanted to carve bones into flutes, darn it), and he didn't meet Morden's standards - who says the opposite can't be true?

---

Well when Morden contacted the ambassador's he was looking for someone who would help in spreading as much conflict as possible in order to help along evolution. From this point of view Londo's answer (wanting to return the centauri republic back to it's former glory) was more useful than G'kar's (who, aside from wanting revenge against the Centauri just wanted his home world to be safe)



Thanks for reading

Shadows of the past

Author: Justin

Rating: pg-13

Summary: This is an Uber fic set in the Babylon 5 universe. A young techno mage and a telepath race to solve a mystery that threatens the galaxy

Notes: This story is set in the year 2267, 2 years after the Drakh released their plaque on the Earth.

Disclaimer: Willow & Tara and a lot of the other characters from this story belong to Joss Whedon/Mutant Enemy. Babylon 5 was created by J. Michael Straczynski

Feedback: yes please

Distribution: Anyone can take it, just let me know please



Chapter 9



Tara caught up with Willow as she was boarding the White Star Thirty two. They were met by a Minbari Ranger who bowed and said, “I have been instructed to guide you to your quarters on board the ship.”



Tara bowed back saying, “Thank you.”



“So all the White stars are just called White star and then a number?” Willow asked, while they made their way to their quarters.



“Uh huh,” Tara said, nodding.



“It doesn't seem very imaginative, I was expecting the Minbari to have fancy names for their... And what is up with the bed?” The last was said as they entered their room and Willow saw the bed which, along with Minbari tradition, was at a thirty degree angle.



“Didn't you know Minbari think that sleeping horizontally is bad for you? As in dying in your sleep bad for you.”



“Yeah, I knew that. The thing is, we're not Minbari.” Willow turned around, “See no bone coming out of the back of my head.”



Tara couldn't help grinning at this, “I think all humans react this way at first, but it isn't too hard to get used to.”



“Have you ever slept in a Minbari bed?”



“Yes, When I visited Minbar. I guarantee you'll get used to it,” Tara smiled at Willow, “Besides if you fall, I'll catch you.”



***



“How long before we get there?” Tara asked.



Willow glanced out the porthole saying, “I think we should be getting there around about...” Willow watched the jump point forming round the ship, “now.”



“I wonder what we're going to find here.”



Willow's answer was cut off by the door chime. Willow went to answer it finding a human ranger there. He bowed and said, “Halloran has asked for you to come to the tactical room.”



“Okay. Um, where is it?”



“I'll take you.”



***



After they had been following the ranger a while Tara asked, “So where are we going exactly?” She didn't know where the tactical room was but she had the feeling that they weren't heading there.



“I'm afraid that you're not going anywhere.” Suddenly the rangers appearance completely changed.



“A chameleon web,” Willow said. Then as she recognised the man, “Warren.”



“Yes.”



“What have you done with... uh...” Willow stopped as she realised she didn't know the ranger's name.



“I'm afraid he was late getting to the ship. So late that from now on we'll have to call him the late Lenny Lenardson.” Warren pulled a small box from his pocket and hit the button on it. Willow screamed with pain, falling to the floor.



“Stop it!” Tara said, stepping towards him. She stopped as he levelled a PPG at her.



“I almost don't believe that it worked.” Waving the gun he added, “Don't move.”



“If you fire that PPG, it'll set of the alarms. You'll never get off the ship.”



“Maybe, maybe not, either way you'll be dead.”



Tara took a step back, trying to figure out a way to stop him.



Warren looked her curiously a moment, “You're the telepath, aren't you?”



Tara didn't answer.



“This isn't personal, but I have my orders.” With that he fired.



***



On the bridge one of the Minbari at the controls turned saying, “Ms Holloran, we've picked up PPG fire on deck three.”



“Send a security detail down to investigate.”



“On their way.” A moment later the Minbari added, “An escape pod has just launched.”



***



Warren threw Willow into a cell and then activated the bars. Waking up Willow raced at the bars, stopping herself just before she hit them. Looking at Warren she asked, “What have you done with Tara?”



Warren grinned at this, “Let's just say she's an ex telepath.”



Willow felt a moment of rage and was about to hurl herself at Warren when she realised that she could sense Tara, sense the fact that she was still alive. Calming a little she asked, “What do you want with me?”



“I don't want anything with you, it's my employers that want you.”



“You mean Neotech? Does my father have anything to do with this?”



“Your father? Ah I thought that name was familiar.” Warren shrugged, “How should I know if he's involved, my work for Neotech, is strictly freelance.” He pressed a couple of buttons on the cell controls, “Well they should be here soon to pick you up, you can ask them then.”



***



When Warren had gone Willow began looking for some way to get out of the cell. A quick test told her that she wouldn't be able to get through the bars, so she looked for another way. Some examination showed that the cell had been added recently. Moving round the cell, using the senses she'd gained from her implants Willow was able to detect how power was being fed into the cell. It was then a simple matter for her disconnect the power. She heard a click telling her that the bars had unlocked. Pulling them open she quickly scrambled out before the power resumed, causing the bars to close behind her.



***



Willow found Warren in a large chamber. For a moment her attention was distracted by another presence within the chamber, a dormant shadow vessel.



Willow stared at it a few moments before saying, “I've seen videos of these things but you have too see one up close to get an idea of just how ugly they are.”



Warren sneered at Willow, “Idiot, do you have no idea of how much power it contains?”



“Yeah, brilliant.” Willow yawned, “I am overwhelmed by a feeling of not caring.”



“To think I was impressed by your tricks, but this is real technology.” Warren indicated the Shadow Vessel, “This is real power.” Turning away he went on, “You know they're right, the weak must perish, so that the strong can prosper.”



“I've got a better idea,” Willow said, “How about the strong perish, so that the weak can prosper?”



Warren looked confused at this, “That's ridiculous.”



“Yes it is, isn't it?”



“You won't be so smug when they arrive for you.”



“Oh yes, these friends of yours, are they coming in a new style Omega Class destroyer, or maybe a Minbari warship or a Narn battle cruiser? No? Then what are they going to do about the Whitestar waiting nearby?”



“That won't be an issue.”



“What are you...” Willow stopped as she saw where he was looking, “You have got to be kidding me.”



Ignoring her Warren began running towards the Shadow Vessel.



“Stop you idiot, you don't know what it will do...” Willow stopped as a part of the ship opened up and Warren ran in. Her head was filled with a loud screaming sound. She raised her hands to her ears, even though she knew the sound was just in her head. A moment later the Shadow vessel took off and started into space.



***



Tessa turned to the door as Tara entered the bridge. “Are you okay? I heard you'd been shot.”



Tara nodded, “I was able to telepathically move his aim, it was only a glancing hit.”



Tessa's gaze moved to Tara's arm which was in a sling, “Shouldn't you be in the medical bay?”



“I'd rather be here. He took Willow with him when he left.” Everyone was momentarily overcome as they heard a loud screaming in their heads. As they recovered Tara asked, “What the hell was that?”



“I'm not entirely certain,” Tessa said, “But I think that was a Shadow vessel activating.”



“There's a ship approaching us from the surface.”



TBC

--

"There are some days that you just can't get rid of a bomb" - Batman: The Movie

I must say, I had in mind a MUCH different update when you started off on the Minbari bed technology. The, ummm...imagery...you gave me there had me thinking very naughty thoughts and then it was all...but...but...NOOO!



So was the entire "Shadows attacking" thing just an elaborate ruse to capture Willow? But then, how would they know she would be going (or did her credentials make it inevitable)? Clearly Warren didn't realize Tara would be there. The ending has me a little baffled. Where's Warren off to, and are some other Neotech baddies going to show up to nab Willow? At least Tara was able to avoid death, so not everything went to hell. You certainly have a way with the cliffhangers, justin, so it's a good thing I'm a cliffhanger whore.



-Cameron

---

What should I be but just what I am? - Edna St.Vincent Millay

Obviously Willow knows more about the shadow vessel than Warren does, I'm just wondering what exactly it's supposed to do. So why do they want Willow so bad? And now that Warren knows Tara's ability (considering he's still alive), is she in danger? (besides the usual). Thanks for the update.



Yvonne

the plot thickens and ince again I have this feeling that Warren is blundering we things that he can barely comprehend never mind use or control. Clever Tara to manage to fake him out with the aim. great cliff hanger can't wait for more

Freddie is king

Has it been that long? Sorry about the delay between updates. Hopefully it won't be so long till the next one.



Shadows of the past



Chapter 10



The White star dodged as the Shadow vessel fired at it. “Something's wrong,” Tessa said, “They're supposed to be a lot more impressive than that.”



Tara thought about the information Willow had found about her implants, how they were necessary for someone to be able to fully control a Shadow Vessel. “If the person controlling it hadn't been prepared then that'd explain why it's shooting so badly.” Then Tara realised what she was saying, that it had to be either Willow or Warren controlling it. She started to panic a moment till she realised that she could sense Willow on the planet surface. “I guess this is why you wanted me along.” She turned towards the viewer, concentrating on the Shadow Vessel. Focused on trying to find the mind that was controlling it. She struggled to get a hold of it with her mind and to freeze it. Tara collapsed as her mind was flooded with images of death and pain.



Tessa moved to catch hold of Tara. Turning to the gunner she said, “Are the primary weapons ready?”



“Aye.”



“Then what are you waiting for, a written invitation? Kill that thing!”



The Shadow Vessel shuddered as the White Star opened fire upon it. After a minute it began to break apart, it's limbs breaking into pieces.



Tara gave a small sob of pain.



Holding her Tessa said, “It's okay Tara. It's dead, it's dead.”



***



“This is shuttle one to White star, we're setting down on the planet surface.”



As the shuttle settled down on the surface a door swung downwards and a pair of men moved down it. Into the small building. Going through into the first room they found Willow sitting cross legged on the floor.



Looking up Willow said, “Well you took your time.”



***



Once the shuttle had returned to the White star Willow and Tara went to a meeting with Tessa.



“They cleared the place out pretty thoroughly,” Tessa said when she met up with Willow and Tara.



Willow nodded, “The only thing left behind was that Shadow Vessel.”



“Since we can assume it wasn't left behind by accident, did they intend for him to use it?”



“Maybe, clear the area so they could come and pick me up.”



“I take it he didn't know the affect it would have on him.” Seeing that neither Willow or Tara understood she went on, “President Sheridan once told me that his second wife, Anna,” Tessa noticed Tara tense slightly at the name, but didn't comment on it, “was put into one of those ships. When she was taken out again her personality had been totally destroyed.”



“No, he seemed pretty eager,” Willow said, “So he probably didn't know that.”



“But why do they want you?” Tara asked.



“Surely because you're a technomage,” Tessa answered.



“Warren didn't know I was, so I guess Neotech don't either.”



“Did you say Neotech?” Tessa said.



“Yes, that's who he works for.”



“That's something else I wanted to talk to you about. Tara remember I said that recently elements within Earth gov have been causing trouble for the alliance. They've started using the presence of these Shadow Vessels, and this attack for their cause.



“So they're opportunists, aren't most politicians?” Willow asked.



“The person making the most noise is a senator Morganson.” Tessa stopped a moment, a scowl on her face.



“I take it you don't like him.”



“He used to be high up in the Clarke Administration, on Mars. When Clarke was overthrown, amnesty was offered to everyone who hadn't committed any specific crimes. Morganson had done some terrible things while on Mars, but we could never prove it. So I've been keeping a close eye on him, looking for evidence. One thing I found was his largest backer is a company called Neotech.”



“So Neotech get hold of a load of surplus Shadow tech and go on the rampage. Then their favourite polician starts using these attacks to further his cause,” Tara summarised, “Is that it? Is Neotech just using the technology to help this Morganson?”



“Well destabalising the Alliance isn't something to be sniffed at.”



Willow raised her hand, “I have one question, where do I fit in?”



***



As Willow and Tara headed back to their quarters Willow said, “Warren said he tried to kill you.”



“Yeah, he said it was orders.”



Willow frowned, “So Neotech want you dead? I really don't like that.”



“I'm not too happy about the idea.”



“Well don't worry, they'll have to go through me first.”



Tara squeezed Willow's hand, “Thanks.”



“I couldn't help notice you flinch slightly when she mentioned Anna Sherridan.”



Tara smiled, trying to not let her nervousness show, “And I was thinking that I managed to cover it up.”



“So what's up?”



Tara paused a moment, trying to work out how to put this. Finally she decided the best way was to just say it and get it over with.“She killed my mother.”



It was a while before Willow could respond, “She what?”



“Not intentionally. What happened was she accidentally activated an artifact which she had found on a dig. It turned out to be a weapon, an anti telepath weapon. It killed most telepaths within a five mile radius.”



Willow took Tara's hand and gave it a slight squeeze, “I'm sorry.”



“Thanks.”



***



Zack entered his security code into the door panel. As the door slid open he drew his PPG and started in to the room, followed by another security guard. He noticed a beeping sound from near the door. Looking round he saw it was from a small device attached to the wall. The beeping was growing faster and more urgent.



Turning Zack grabbed the other guard and threw them both out of the room. A moment later there was an explosion and the room was filled with flames.



***



Tara woke up with a jerk. She had had a dream about her meeting in the zen garden. Getting out of bed, Tara went over to the ships computer. After the dream she had a feeling that wasn't just a chance encounter. Tara switched on the computer and started a search. Muttering to herself, “What was his name again?” Then to the computer she said, “Search for a minbari called Neroon.” After a few moments a match came up. As she read it she felt herself go numb. “Why do I keep seeing dead people?” Tara asked herself.



TBC

--

Homer Simpson: When will people learn, democracy just doesn't work.

Poor Zack, he always seems to get the short end of the stick... at least he was only almost blown up, but still...



Whatever made Warren think he'd make a good Shadow ship's core? Good riddance to him, I say - assuming he is dead. Obviously I'd like to think so (pity it would've been quick...) but if he turned up again it wouldn't be the first time an ally of the Shadows has come back from the dead to continue being a pain in the butt.



Intriguing goings-on behind the scenes, too - no surprise that a former high-up under Clarke is up to no good. It makes sense that the Shadows would've had an anti-telepath weapon, I wonder if whoever's behind this current upset is after the same thing, or trying to improve it? It's all a mystery.



At least our girls are back together

Chris Cook

Through the Looking-glass

A Willow and Tara for every world.

Babylon 5 and Willow and Tara, two favorite topics brought together-a great idea. I will enjoy seeing where you go with this and eagerly await the next update.

Artemis:

Quote:

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Poor Zack,

---

Indeed poor, poor Zack. B5's butt monkey

Quote:

---

Whatever made Warren think he'd make a good Shadow ship's core? Good riddance to him, I say - assuming he is dead. Obviously I'd like to think so

---

Let me put your mind at ease, he's an ex Warren

Quote:

---

but if he turned up again it wouldn't be the first time an ally of the Shadows has come back from the dead to continue being a pain in the butt.

---

Yes but those were people who were worth saving.

Quote:

---

Intriguing goings-on behind the scenes, too - no surprise that a former high-up under Clarke is up to no good. It makes sense that the Shadows would've had an anti-telepath weapon,

---

I'm not sure if I've mentioned this, and I'm too lazy to go back and check, but the sub plot involving Tara's mother and the anti telepath weapon was based on the book The Shadow Within, which I reccomend. It's one of the better B5 tie in novels.

Quote:

---

At least our girls are back together

---

But for how long *raise little finger to mouth* Mwaahaahaahaa



Thanks for the feedback.



Traveler4069: Thanks, I hope you like the story.

--

Homer Simpson: When will people learn, democracy just doesn't work.

Shadows of the past

Author: Justin

Rating: pg-13

Summary: This is an Uber fic set in the Babylon 5 universe. A young techno mage and a telepath race to solve a mystery that threatens the galaxy

Notes: This story is set in the year 2267, 2 years after the Drakh released their plaque on the Earth.

Disclaimer: Willow & Tara and a lot of the other characters from this story belong to Joss Whedon/Mutant Enemy. Babylon 5 was created by J. Michael Straczynski

Feedback: yes please

Distribution: Anyone can take it, just let me know please



Chapter 11



Willow and Tara lay in bed together. Tara having her arm over Willow, since Willow was still convinced that she was going to slide out at any moment. “So any ideas about what we're going to do next?” Willow asked Tara, “I mean we got nothing from the asteroid and Warren's room didn't turn up anything.”



“I guess Tessa is going to have her people checking out Neotech,” Tara answered, turning a little so that she could face Willow.



Willow shot up, “Neotech, of course.” Rolling off the bed Willow walked over to a terminal grumbling to herself, “I am so stupid to not think of this.”



Tara sat up, trying to work out what had happened, “Willow, what is it?”



Pausing briefly Willow turned to answer, “I can access my dad's account on their systems, check them out.”



“You can?”



“Yeah, he never changes his codes, I did it all the time when I was younger.”



Tara got up and walked over. As she watched Willow working it occurred to her that it might cause problems if anyone noticed that Willow's father was checking into his company's activities. “He won't get in any trouble will he?”



“Not if I do this right.” After a few moments Willow said, “I'm in.”



“So are you really going to find their plans?”



“Well I don't think that I'll find a memo entitled, 'our plans for galactic domination.' but if I look at their shipping manifests and personnel files I can see where they're active at the moment. By comparing that with their public reports...”



“You can see where they're working covertly.”



Willow nodded, “This might take a while.”



Tara sat down next to Willow and watched her work.



***



Once they had found a few places to check Willow shut down her access to the Neotech systems. Copying the data to a data rod she said, “We should get this straight to Tessa.”



“Well not straight to her,” Tara said, smiling slightly. Willow turned to her looking confused, “Shouldn't we get dressed first?”



“Oh, yes,” Willow blushed as she said this.



***



Once they were dressed they hurried to Tessa's office. As they went in they noticed she had several screens showing information. Her attention was focused on one of them. Sitting down they waited for her to finish.



Finally Tessa turned to them and said, “So, what can I do for you?”



“Yeah, we've been looking into Neotech,” Willow started.



“You have? That's a coincidence, so have we.”



“Willow found a few places where they're active, but trying to keep that activity secret,” Tara said.



“Well that secrecy could just be to keep competitors from knowing what they're doing,” Tessa pointed out.



“Well, we thought it might help,” Willow said handing over her data rod.



Tessa brought up the data on a screen and glancing at it said, “We're checking out these places al...” She stopped a moment then said, “Except these two.”



Willow flashed Tara a smile. “Didn't you know about their operations there?” Willow asked, her voice innocent.



“No we didn't. Well we can take the White star to check them out.” Tessa frowned, wondering how they'd missed these two sites,



“Or maybe you can check one of the sites, and we can take my ship to check the other,” Willow suggested.



Tessa stared at Willow a while, not seeming to believe what she had just heard, “You're kidding, right?”



“Um...” Willow wasn't sure how to respond.



“I mean we know that they're after you, are you really suggesting blithely going to one of their bases, alone.”



“She wouldn't be alone,” Tara said.



“Anyway we wouldn't do anything silly,” Willow went on, “Just get in there, take a quick scan of the system and then leave without being noticed.”



Tessa considered the plan. “Okay then, as long as you promise to be careful.”



“I always am,” Willow answered, thinking, 'Except for those times that I'm not.'



***



Once they had left Tessa Willow went to the docking bay to get her ship ready, while Tara went to their quarters to pack some things.



Once Tara had gotten everything she walked to the docking bay. She found Willow in her ship, checking the systems.



“Are you sure you want to do this?” Willow asked.



Tara was a bit shocked by the question, there had never been any question in her mind about her going, “What? Don't you want me to come?”



“Well yes, but Tesa's right, it will be dangerous. I mean I'll be careful, but...”



Tara placed her hand on Willow's, “Where you go, so do I.”



Willow smiled, “Good. I didn't want to do this without you.”



***



As the ship passed through hyperspace, Willow looked at a control, “Should be a couple of hours till we get there.”



“There's something I need to talk to you about, but I'm worried you might think I'm crazy.”



“Hey you can trust me.”



“I know I can, but even I think it sounds insane. You see I've been seeing dead people.”



Willow didn't say anything for a few moments, “Uh, that isn't what I was expecting.”



Tara nodded. “It started shortly after I arrived at Babylon 5. I was sitting in the Zen garden when I was approached by a Mimbari, Neroon.”



“But Neroon's dead,” Willow pointed out.



“Yeah, that was sort of my point.”



“Oh, right, of course. Has it happened any other times?”



“Later I saw Lyta Alexander. At the same time I heard a voice that sounded like a Vorlon.”



“What did it say?”



“That I was touched by darkness.”



“Referring to the implants,” Willow guessed.



“I guess so.”



“I can look into it if you like.”



Tara nodded, “Yes, thanks.”



***



“We're here,” Tara said.



“Yeah,” Willow said as she opened up a jump point and guided the ship through it. “Let's try to take a look and get out before...” She was interrupted by a loud screaming which cut through their minds, “That happens.”



Tara turned to look at the approaching Shadow Vessel, which had appeared in between them and the jump point which they had just left, “There's only one.”



“So we've got that going for us.”



“I think I can stop it.”



“Are you sure? I heard it wasn't too pleasant last time.”



Tara just nodded.



“Well you just need to slow it down, let us get far enough away to open up another jump point.”



“Okay.” Tara turned to the Shadow vessel and concentrated on it. As before she caught hold of it's mind and tried to hold it still, but then everything went wrong. Tara felt a sharp pain at the front of her head, as if there were something drilling through her forehead. She tried to break her connection with the Shadow vessel, but it kept hold of her mind. The pain grew steadily till, Crying out, Tara fell to the floor.



Willow quickly moved to catch Tara, “Tara, what is it?” She tried to comfort Tara while mentally controlling the ship. The ship shuddered as a shot from the Shadow vessel grazed its engines. Willow put more power into the main engines. She was relieved to see she was starting to pull ahead, but that relief ended as she mentally checked the ships status and saw that with the damage to the engines the Shadow vessel would soon catch up. Gazing down at Tara, Willow quickly made up her mind about what she had to do and she programmed a set of instructions into the ships computer. She gently set Tara down on the floor, then kissed her forehead.



Getting up Willow walked over to the escape pod, “Goodbye Tara.” With that she hit the eject button. Willow watched from the escape pod as her ship opened up a jump point and entered hyper space. She turned her attention to the shadow vessel as it changed it's course to approach her. “I guess I'll get some answers now.”



TBC

--

Homer Simpson: When will people learn, democracy just doesn't work.

Yup, that's Willow all right - need answers? Stick head in trap, see what happens... lucky she's so resourceful, and has Tara looking out for her Such a sweet start to the chapter, snuggling in bed together as they worked out what to do next. I should've known disaster would strike



So, Willow captured by Neotech and their shadowy allies, Tara unconscious in a technomage ship she may or may not be able to control once she wakes up - edge-of-seat time

Chris Cook

Through the Looking-glass

A Willow and Tara for every world.

Artemis:

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Such a sweet start to the chapter, snuggling in bed together as they worked out what to do next. I should've known disaster would strike

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Yeah, things were definitely too good to last

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So, Willow captured by Neotech and their shadowy allies, Tara unconscious in a technomage ship she may or may not be able to control once she wakes up - edge-of-seat time

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I'm afraid that's a position you'll have to get used to



I have a confession. This story has grown a bit from the one that I initially planned. So much so that I've had to split it into two parts. Which means that some of the story lines from this part won't be wrapped up until the second part.



thanks for the feedback



Chapter 12



Tara stood at her parent's desk, staring at the coin lying on. She was concentrating on it, trying to move it with her thoughts. Unfortunately the coin was refusing to cooperate, remaining resolutely in place. After trying for half an hour Tara decided that she didn't have any telekenetic ability. Sighing she picked up the coin and put it away. She jumped as she heard a knock at the door.



Going to answer it she found it was David Barries, a member of the psycorp who sometimes worked with her mother.



“I'm afraid my parents are both out,” Tara said.



“Actually it was you I've come to see,” David said, “Can I come in?”



Tara nodded, and led him in. As she did so she noticed how he seemed tense and upset about something. “Something's happened,” Tara said, “something to mom.”



Turning round David took a breath to gather his nerves, then said, “I'm sorry, there's been an accident.”





***



As Tara woke up she could see the white star through the view port of the ship. The ship seemed to be heading towards it under automatic control. As Tara tried to work out how they'd gotten back there she said, “Willow, we're back at...” Tara stopped as she realised that Willow wasn't around. “Willow?” As the ship docked with the White star, Tara searched through it, but couldn't find any sign of Willow.



When the ship had docked Tara left it, finding Tessa waiting in the docking bay. “Tara are you okay? We detected damage to your engines.”



“We were attacked by a Shadow vessel. I tried to stop it like before, but something went wrong, it was able to fight back.” Tara thought back to the attack, trying to piece together what had happened. Her brow furrowed as she said, “I guess I passed out. When I woke up the ship was approaching the Whitestar.”



“I guess Willow must have flown it back. Where is she?”



Tara shook her head, “That's the problem, Willow's not on board.”



***



Willow opened her eyes to find herself in a darkened room, with the only illumination being a lamp above her head.



Willow closed her eyes again.



Opening her eyes Willow was disappointed to see that the scene hadn't changed.



A second light came on, illuminating an oldish man who approached Willow.



“Ah Ms Rosenberg,” He said, his tone pleasant, “I'm glad to see that you're awake.”



Willow stared at him, she knew she'd seen him somewhere. Then it came back to her. She had seen him when she had visited her father at work, “I know you. You work for Neotech.”



“That's right, You know you've made things very difficult for us.”



“Oh, I'm sorry to hear that.”



The man nodded, “What happened to Mears? Is he dead?”



Willow nodded.



“Well no great loss.”



“I know what you're up to. Using the Shadow attacks, you're trying to reduce the trust in the Alliance.”



“Well Sheridan and Dellen have been telling everyone that the Shadows are gone, this shows what there word is worth.”



“So how did you get your hands on all this Shadow tech?”



“During the last war, the Shadows started to spread their forces out, so they wouldn't be vulnerable to a single attack. It seems that there was some sort of accident, resulting in the Shadows on that asteroid being put into stasis. So when the Shadows left, they were left behind. When we revived them, they were confused, disoriented, unhappy at being cut off from their kin. They were quite amiable to carry out our plan.”



“What do I have to do with all this?”



“They have some notion that you're important. It seemed a small matter to help them in this. You know it's all your father's fault.”



“My father?” Willow started to feel ill at the thought that her father might somehow be behind this.



“If he hadn't been constantly boasting about how special you are, we would never have worked out you were the one they were looking for.”



“So he doesn't know what's going on?”



“He's totally, blissfully ignorant.”



“So the Shadows want me, but you don't know why.”



“Like I said it's such a small thing, given all the help they've given us, and they're too weakened to do it themselves.”



“You like that don't you. An ancient race, dependant on you for help. Must make you feel like such a big man.”



The man looked confused a moment, “I don't see where this is leading.”



Willow laughed, “Just how stupid are you? They're using you the same way they use everyone else, by giving you what you want.”



The man glowered at her, "You have a choice. Either work with us or... Well I'm sure that you can guess what will happen."



"Go to hell," Willow responded, trying to sound determined.



The man smiled, "Ladies first." Spinning on his heels, he walked out of the room.



***



Tara was woken from her thoughts by the com system sounding.



“Tara,” Tessa said, “We've reached the system where you were attacked.”



“I'm coming to the bridge.”



Tara had just made it to the door when a loud screaming sounded in her mind. After taking a moment to recover Tara started again, but stopped with a feeling that something was missing. Tara almost fell as she realised what it was. “Willow's gone.”



***





Tara stood by her mothers bed, watching her mother breathing. “It looks like she's just sleeping.”



“Yes, it does... but her brain waves.”



Tara nodded. She had always had a stronger connection with her mother than with most people, which allowed them to talk inside each other's minds without much effort. Now all she could sense from her mother was a constant, repetetive pulsing sound. “Like a machine,” Tara whispered.





TBC

--

Homer Simpson: When will people learn, democracy just doesn't work.

Edited by: justin at: 2/14/05 11:50 am

I'm wondering if the 'accident' with Tara's mother was so accidental after all You'd think people would know better than to mess with Shadows, but no, it seems there's always some ambitious idiot ready to convince himself that this time they're not just using him for their own ends...



Now I'm curious (and fearful) to find out what's been done to Willow - has she been made into a Shadow pilot? Will Tara be able to rescue her mind from whatever state it's been altered to?

Chris Cook

Through the Looking-glass

A Willow and Tara for every world.

OMGOSH!



I just finished reading this whole thing.



It's so awesome. Willow being not so human..thats just cool!



and Tara being a telepath..thats brilliant.



I'm very curious as to what happened to Willow. I'm excited and worried at the same time. I can't wait till your next update. Hopefully it's soon.

I just found this, good thing I've seen at least ONE B5 movie (the first one probably, with the earth being attacked by minbari I think??).



Anyway... WHY did Willow propose that she and Tara would scout the other location alone? It makes no sense what-so-ever, has no advantages... none. I'm not familliar with B5 ships but couldn't a white-star spare some fighter-escorts to keep Willow and Tara safe??



Why is that Shadow stuff considered such a danger anyway ? Just a couple of fighters can be handled by a sufficiently large army I think... Granted, their method on control is a bit strange and dangerous but thats towards the pilot



So Willow is being held captive once again, whats to stop her from escaping exactly? I'll guess that shadow-fighter thingie is still around somewhere to borrow for a ride, wherever she may be.



Evil Neotech people didn't exactly equip Warren well, now did they? The device he used to knock out Willow only worked for a little while, so of course Willow could escape. His entire plan seemed awfully badly designed .



30 degrees beds... imagine the possibilities... hehe...



A good thing I found this story late, the later chapters did a good job of explaining some B5 stuff. Or it's just me who didn't 'get' the story-line..hmm... nah.. can't be it



Tara as a telepath does fit, what is the scale used to rate her skills? I know she is P3 but that doesn't tell me much I suppose true earth-based magic would be hard to do on B5, so being a techno-mage make sense for Willow. How come she can afford just hopping around without actually earning money ? Does her daddy really pay all of that, as opposed to spending time with her??



Lots of questions... lots of things to discover..



ETA:



I think to much about this stuff But I can't figure out why Willow using the escape pod made her ship suddenly capable to use HyperDrive to escape the shadow fighter?? It can't have been the weight, Willow isn't *that* heavy . I do admire the courage it took to do what Willow did, but I wonder why it helped Tara escape...



Grimmy

--
"You hurt Tara," Willow said too calmly. "The last one who tried that was a god. I made her regret it." -- Unexpected Consequences by Lisa of Nine

Edited by: Grimlock72 at: 2/18/05 3:15 am

Artemis:

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I'm wondering if the 'accident' with Tara's mother was so accidental after all

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Let me put your mind at ease, it was deinitely an accident. What happened was Ana Sheridan found a strange artifact made from organic technology while on a dig. Whilst investigating it she discovered that it responded to her thoughts, so she got a telepath to check it. Unfortunately this activated it. Causing it to send out a mental shockwave which put every telepath of a rating of P5 or less into the same state as Tara's mother. Now let me tell you, was Ana's face ever red

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Now I'm curious (and fearful) to find out what's been done to Willow - has she been made into a Shadow pilot?

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That'll be revealed next update



xonethousandtears08x: Thanks. I'm glad you're enjoying it so far.



Grimlock:

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Anyway... WHY did Willow propose that she and Tara would scout the other location alone? It makes no sense what-so-ever, has no advantages... none. I'm not familliar with B5 ships but couldn't a white-star spare some fighter-escorts to keep Willow and Tara safe??

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Whitestars do carry a contingent of fighters but in this case an escort would have done more harm than good. A typical fighter doesn't have the firepower to be able to harm a Shadow vessel so they wouldn't have been able to help fighting it. Also, which is worse, they aren't able to open up a jump point. So what would have happened is Willow would have had to use her ship to open a jump point and then remained behind while the fighters went into hyperspace, all the while being fired at by the Shadow vessel.



As to why Willow suggested leaving the whitestar at all, she was worried that unless they checked both places at the same time Neotect might be able to dispose of some of the evidence. Knowing that Neotech wanted Tara dead made her a bit anxious to find out who was behind it, so they could be stopped.

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Why is that Shadow stuff considered such a danger anyway ? Just a couple of fighters can be handled by a sufficiently large army I think...

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Well it would have to be a very large army, and the losses wouldn't exactly be negligable.



Though the reason why it caused so much panic was the possibility that the entire shadow fleet had returned. This would be bad in and of itself, but worse is the fact that the Vorlon wouldn't be far behind them.



Given the fact that near the end of the last Shadow war both the Vorlon and Shadows destroyed any planets which had had any contact with their enemies, this was a very worrying prospect.

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Evil Neotech people didn't exactly equip Warren well, now did they? The device he used to knock out Willow only worked for a little while, so of course Willow could escape. His entire plan seemed awfully badly designed

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Well this is mainly because no one realised that Willow had become a tech mage. So there plans were rather lacking.

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A good thing I found this story late, the later chapters did a good job of explaining some B5 stuff. Or it's just me who didn't 'get' the story-line..hmm... nah.. can't be it

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It's my fault. I kind of went into the story assuming everyone had seen Babylon, and therefore didn't explain it as well as I should have.

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How come she can afford just hopping around without actually earning money ? Does her daddy really pay all of that, as opposed to spending time with her??

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Actually Willow paid for it herself. While at university she designed some new algorythms for navigating hyperspace, which helped to greatly reduce travel times. She invested the money which she made from that and then when she finished university she used the money to buy herself a ship. The sad part is that when Willow told her parents about her plans their first response was, "How are you going to afford it?" Because they hadn't known about Willow's acheivement.

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But I can't figure out why Willow using the escape pod made her ship suddenly capable to use HyperDrive to escape the shadow fighter??

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Well the ship had been capable of opening a jump point with Willow on board. The problem is that they have a weapon which can cause a jump point to collapse, which isn't really healthy for the ship that's going through it. So Willow used the escape pod thinking that the Shadow vessel would go after her, which would give Tara a chance to escape.



Thanks for the comments. I'm glad that you're liking the story and that it's making you think

--

Homer Simpson: When will people learn, democracy just doesn't work.

Ah.. so Willow wanted to divert attention away from Tara.. courageous indeed. Hopefully it wont get her into too much severe trouble.



Still can't 'scale' a 'shadow fighter', I have in mind this image of a better-powered Tie-Fighter. From your description they're better than that?? With the bio-pilot and such I'm thinking more about species 7..something from startrek-voyager. Those were annoyingly difficult to kill as well



Let's put it another way; a shadow fighter with a proper experienced pilot, would that pose a threat to a White-Star class ship ??



Destroying planets can be done by verrrry small ships, just irradiate the planet surface and wait it out. Seems they did that with earth?? Or we talking DeathStar-style destruction of planets??



Hmm... I suppose watching all of B5 movies/series would be sort of pointless now. (wouldn't know in which order to watch what anyway:-)



It's still unexplained WHY Willow wanted to take a SINGLE ship (being hers) and investigate a possible threat ALONE. Well ... yes I realize it was needed for the story, but besides that .



I hope I don't come across as too critical, but those questions keep nagging me. Keeping me awake at night and such... well allmost .



Compared to StarWars, a WhiteStar would be sort of a destroyer ? (you know, the huge overhead flying thingie in the 1st movie...verrrry impresive effect back then ). I find it difficult to judge the level of threat/danger they're in at the moment. The fact that Willow so easily escape Warren the last time she was captured doesn't help in that respect...



Speaking of which... does a laser-turret instantly flail somebody before burning them up? Sounds like the faster variant of a certain TV episode, heh. : -->



I *like* SF-series by the way, just never got into B5. It was aired rather badly sequenced over here, which kills such a tightly plotted serie (appeared much tighter plotter to me, compared to say TNG or VOY, DS9 was more soapie)



Thanks for explaing some B5 stuff though



Grimmy

--
"You hurt Tara," Willow said too calmly. "The last one who tried that was a god. I made her regret it." -- Unexpected Consequences by Lisa of Nine

Edited by: Grimlock72 at: 2/21/05 12:51 pm