Babylon 5 The Complete Second Season: The Coming Of Shadows

Great science fiction no matter how dated or how old is great science fiction that is timeless. Babylon 5 is one of those stories. Babylon 5 The Complete Second Season: The Coming Of Shadows hits a major high note. Season One felt a bit dated with groundbreaking special effects in their infancy, wooden acting and sketchy storytelling [albeit much of it setting things up], but Season Two really raised the bar in a big way. Season Two absolutely takes off and soars. It's clearly all about the writing, concept and story first and foremost. Straczynski was in full command for Season 2 and really took over the reins of his show. Second, the cast chemistry seriously grooved. All in all, the performances were splendid- regular, recurring and guest turns included. Finally, and not that it’s an essential component, but the effects team must have been working overtime because there were extraordinary improvements over the first season. There were some impressive sequences here. I was humbled. You have to tip your cap to Straczynski. There is much thought and construction that has gone into this story, the characters, the music and the mythology. He also never let up and kept pressing for the best in telling his story. His accomplishment is no easy feat. This is the stuff of sci-fi legend.

Now, I never could understand the point of grading an entire season of a show. There are so many hits and misses within a season, and to calculate an average grade just seems illogical. Take Season One, for example, there were a few strong highlights, but most of it was okay. It's hard enough nailing down an episode sometimes. They can start weak and end strong or have just a few key moments or just register off the charts as exceptional on the whole.

Looking back it’s funny that I scoffed so brazenly with a slight of hand at Babylon 5. I even took a similiar tact as I began viewing the series. The show as it unfolded was nothing like my perception of what it would be. I had a preconceived notion of Babylon 5 being nothing like this. I’m not sure what I was expecting. I had seen “that guy with the hair” and thought he looked ridiculous. I had seen the lizard-like G’Kar and thought he wasn’t alien enough for me to enjoy the show. Whatever I was thinking I was thinking wrong. Never judge a book by its cover as they say or in this case a DVD cover. Folks, I can no longer deny the magnitude of this tremendous tale and what I was allowing myself to miss. I don't know quite how to put in words what I thought I believed this show to be when I knew nothing about it, but it wasn't anything like this! I had no inkling of the tale that would be unfolding.
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Some of the extras are just fine on this second season set. There is an introduction by series creator J. Michael Straczynski and cast including Bruce Boxleitner. J. Michael Straczynski provides audio commentary on two episodes and stars from the series provide audio for one. Documentaries include Building Babylon: Blueprint Of An Episode and Shadows And Dreams: Honors Of Babylon and more.

I'm not exactly sure where Season Two fits into the pantheon of Babylon 5's five seasons plus Crusade, but this is surely one of the best. The show took a 180 degree turn from Season One and blew my socks off. It was an unforgettable viewing experience to be sure. Season Three here I come.

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K-Tel presents Londo & Vir singin' the Centauri classics!

B5 S2 Ep22: The Fall Of Night

"Now I'm free....I'm free fallin'."
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I love Boxleitner. I especially love when he's pissed and says things like "straight to hell!" He's one helluva commander! I also love Ivanova as second in command. She kicks ass! She has that steely-eyed resolve. The two are indeed command and control. I love their sack and spine in hitting the Centauri with both barrels to protect Babylon 5 and the Narn vessel at all costs in the season ending installment of Babylon 5's The Fall Of Night.
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What's funny about Sheridan's use of the line, "Straight To Hell," is, not only is it where this show feels like it's going, but those same words were uttered by Sheridan in his debut, Points Of Departure, and everything has come full circle here.

So as I immerse myself in this series Christopher Franke’s scores have really been growing on me. Apparently, as many of you already know, he was a member of Tangerine Dream. That makes sense because I’ve heard their music before way back in Ridley Scott’s Legend and his electronica reminds me of those compositions. I thought, as some of you know, the music was pretty horrid at first. It was very cold, serviceable and I just didn’t care much for it, but now I’m really enjoying his suites. His often dark European synthetics match up well with the gritty realities of the Babylon 5 ‘verse. He has a number of light moments that really underscore the tension and drama here. I’ve come to love his input and unique stamp on the project. So many scenes are either quietly complemented by his score or heighten the tension dramatically. Later Sheridan's sequence in the monorail is a great example.

So here we are at the season finale and what a season it has been. I was half-joking last entry when I said I thought we’d see Robert Rusler as Warren Keffer again in the final installment. I thought he might be finished. I really didn't expect him to rear his ugly head again. His general lack of smarts and character development marks him as the inevitably doomed road kill of hyperspace at the hands of those nasty Shadows and their devastating purple-pink firepower. Perhaps attempting to hunt down a giant black spider in space alone in a Starfury was not his brightest life achievement. It shows you how much they thought of his input. Splat! Done! Next!

I must admit folks there is so much happening in Babylon 5 it takes me roughly 2 hours to actually sit through and write down thoughts on each one of these episodes. It is wall to wall jammed with excitement. The Fall Of Night is a humdinger of intrigue and climax as only Babylon 5 can deliver it.

Previously, in Comes The Inquisitor, G’Kar warned the other alien races of potential encroachment on their worlds by the Centauri. The Centauri usurpation of other outposts, outside of the Narn, has begun. “War is spreading.”

So Londo, sporting his classic 'bad guy black' jacket, is clearly out of control. The monster is out of the box, unleashed and beyond reason. The entire region around Centauri is in conflict. The ultimate spin doctor and spin maestro that Londo aspires to be tells Sheridan he is attempting to “stabilize the region” by “establishing a presence.” Uh-huh. Sheridan cannot understand why Londo can’t see everything falling apart. I know how he feels, I just want to beat my head against the wall in frustration. Arggghhh! But, I know it is Straczynski's intention to create one of the world's greatest science fiction-styled Greek tragedies.

Garibaldi nails it a short time later when he informs Sheridan that Londo is not the same guy anymore, he sees fear in his eyes. He is at once angry with him and sympathetic. "Look into his eyes sometime. You can see fast things are moving. For Londo, it’s like being on a wild horse. You don’t want to get thrown off, so you hang on even harder. He’s trapped. You know, half the time, I’m so furious with the guy I could break his neck. The other half, I feel sorry for him."

Meanwhile, Frederick Lantz of Earth’s Ministry Of Peace arrives along with his counterpart Mr. Welles of the Nightwatch unit. Lantz is played exquisitely by Roy Dotrice. Dotrice also appeared in two episodes of Space:1999 including Breakaway. Sheridan assigns Ivanova as their personal liaison. It would seem Earth is finally stepping into the storm that appears to be spreading beyond the Centauri and Narn, but why? Well it turns out Earth has its own agenda [but of course].

Sheridan, elsewhere, has promised an incoming Narn pilot and its surviving heavy cruiser sanctuary. It has jumped to a point on the other side of Epsilon 3 where it remains in hiding. He assures the Narn [Na’Kai] he will protect him while in Babylon 5 airspace.

Mr. Welles propositions Ivanova to become a Nightwatch representative [a.k.a. snitch, stoolie, ratfink]. He urge that it will expedite her future career options. She is incensed and stands by her code of honor by sending him packing. His ovations are made without the informing the Ministry Of Peace.

Sheridan confides in G’Kar of the good news concerning the surviving Narn. G’Kar further learns of Lantz’ visit and requests an audience with the permission granted by Sheridan. G’Kar is over the moon with the news like a kid in a candy store over this new wave of good tidings.

The purpose of the Nightwatch program is becoming clearer. Its intentions are not neutral, but as oversight for Earth Defense interests. Its mission: act as a Big Brother on Babylon 5 and weed out acts of sedition or even those that might be deemed suspicious concerning alien races and their comings and goings on the station [Earthers are not immuned]. I have been tough on Jeff Conaway, but he gives his best turn to date under questioning by Mr. Welles. It’s a good sequence and he plays it well.

Mr. Lantz is meeting with the various ambassadors from the League of Non-Alligned Worlds. Citizen G’Kar requests time, but is bluntly and abruptly turned away and dismissed.

Sheridan learns the Nightwatch associates are feeding information back to Mr. Welles. Lantz arrives in Command & Control demanding to know why fighters are being trained to fight Centauri. Sheridan advises that it would be wise for station pilots to be prepared for any event. Oddly, Lantz demands such maneuvers cease and desist. They could jeopardize his “mission.” What mission? Everyone thought you were here for an analysis of the Centauri dilemma. As it turns out, the real reason for the Ministry’s visit is to sign a Non-Aggression Treaty with the Centauri. Well isn't that just swell. It's the first step to establishing an Earth-Centauri alliance for peace. I believe another way of looking at that is called turning a blind eye and implementing appeasement as they did in Europe with the Nazis. “They’ll never bother us.” Sheridan and Ivanova are stunned. There is a female mole in Command & Control who is sabotaging Sheridan’s authority and just intentions.

The situation is becoming untenable. To ease the tension and stress Ivanova presents a gift to Sheridan. She has brought him a piece of shrapnel from the Minbari Black Star that he took down. She reminds him it has been said no one could take out a Minbari War Cruiser. She assures him Sheridan Starkiller did and that the gift is a symbol that “the impossible is possible.”

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Matters grow worse when the mole informs Mr. Welles of the hidden Narn War Cruiser. It isn’t long before Londo is notified thanks to the Ministry’s agenda. A Centauri Battle Cruiser arrives through the jumpgate and tensions are at their pinnacle. Sheridan assures the Narn of his word to protect him while in Babylon 5 jurisdiction. I had that sinking feeling for G’Kar again and was praying like a Narn to G'Quan that Na’Kai would survive.

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Later, Mr. Lantz returns to Command & Control in protest and is quickly escorted off the bridge. Sheridan launches the Starfuries to scatter and cover the Narn warship. Londo is informed the Narn cruiser will be safely escorted to the jumpgate out of Babylon 5 airspace. Londo is cut off by Sheridan via Bab Com and he is none too happy to see his newfound authority dismissed and taken to task. Babylon 5 activates its newly installed defense grid. Sooweet action! The Centauri fires upon the Narn and Babylon 5 simultaneously and the battle is on! Babylon 5 and the Starfuries retaliate with their own firepower. The Centauri ship is inadvertently destroyed and the Narn ship makes it to the jumpgate. I’m secretly hoping that Narn ship is able to play a role in the Narn revenge and come back and kick some major hiney. This a great scene between Boxleitner and Dotrice.

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Sheridan must stand before the council ordered to apologize and his mirror rehearsal is brilliant.

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“I apologize. I’m sorry. I’m sorry we had to defend ourselves against an unwarranted attack. I’m sorry that your crew was stupid enough to fly around a station filled with a quarter million civilians including your own people. And I’m sorry I waited as long as I did before I blew them all straight to hell. As with everything else, it’s the thought that counts.” We never actually see the real apology.

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Sheridan is enroute to the council meeting being held in the Zen Gardens, but is followed by a Centauri onto the monorail transport train that runs through the center of Babylon 5. On the next stop the train empties and he spots an active bomb on board. He overrides the doors while moving and jumps from the train. Sheridan falls into the weightless center of Babylon 5 [I wasn’t sure about how that was possible, but I was willing to suspend belief because it was bloody bleepin’ cool] as the train explodes behind him. Delenn turns to Kosh and a being of light emerges from the encounter suit. The god-like being takes an appearance unique to each race, as they look skyward. Sheridan takes the being’s hand and inquires, “Kosh?” as the form nods in the affirmative.

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Later Delenn meets with Sheridan. She knows The Shadows will discover the actions of Kosh and will be fearful of the Vorlons. Still, she does not feel the Vorlons would truly act against The Shadows, but believes it to be enough to keep the dark forces at bay for a time.

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Drazi ambassador: “And you Ambassador Mollari – what did you see?"
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Londo: “Nothing. I saw nothing."

"He has revealed himself to those who understand," informs Delenn. So there you have it Londo. You are in such deep shit!

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The whole androgenous-Being-O-Light-man-boy-with-supple-lips-and-whitehot-glow-upon-bald-head thing was just a leeetle bit beeezarre, but man I loved it! So strange and yet so unexpected! Can you imagine a faith so universal that the being or god everyone looked upon was in their own image. Is Straczynski telling us something here? Safe to say Yes!
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It is the end of Earth Year 2259. The Centauri are expanding their empire with the newly formed Earth-Centauri Treaty. The Nightwatch are incarcerating people aboard Babylon 5 suspected of seditious acts against Earth. Freedoms are being removed. War is upon Babylon 5. Yup, just another happy, uplifting entry in the world of Babylon 5. Ya gotta love it!

Babylon 5 once “the last best hope for peace” is now “the last best hope for victory.” Yes another change is in the air for Season 3.

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And, of course, as we mentioned earlier, dum dum, one-chromosome-short Keffer takes on The Shadows in hyperspace just long enough to record some footage for the news services before he bites it from the Babylon 5 opening credit roll. Yeah he definitely didn’t get developed. I was not saddened at his explosive demise. I also was not sad to see Mary Kay Adams go as Na'Toth, the replacement of Julie Caitlin-Brown. In fact, I had completely forgotten about her along the way the season was so good. G'Kar was so good going it solo I just spaced it regarding his assistant. Anyway, with the footage now on intergalactic television I guess the whole Shadows thing is definitely out of the bag at this point.

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Classic exchanges:

Sheridan: “I want all our fighters put through training exercises three times a week from now on…”
Ivanova: “I’ll see to it personally. And if they don’t get any better I’ll start issuing live ammo. That should have a very inspirational affect.”

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The Fall Of Night: A-

Whew! What a season for Babylon 5.

B5 S2 Ep21: Comes The Inquisitor

G'Kar: Narn of the people.

I’m really glad to see Robert Rusler was used to his potential in the series. I mean, really, what has he made 3 appearances at the most? His screen time is definitely minimal and we certainly know nothing about him. He never struck me as all that interesting anyway. It’s just funny they gave him an opening credit and then buried him in the background. I think the uncredited Jeff Conaway has been in the series more than him. How much did Rusler get paid? Knowing how tight the budget was on this series it couldn’t have been much, but at the same time he didn’t work very hard. I know- they’re saving him for the season finale right? I won't hold my breath, but it just seems like he's been forgotten.

So here Comes The Inquisitor Babylon 5 Season 2. Here’s another shining installment in the Babylon 5 legacy. WOW and what an entry it is! Certainly this is a thinking person’s show [right M!]. The writing is light years beyond the first season at this point matched only by the performances and including some impressive guest star turns since the agonizing days of the screaming Kent Broadhurst appearance in Babylon Squared. Straczynski cleverly weaves a bit of historical Earther infamy into the show and ties it to his own B5 mythology. I Loved that! Pure dead brilliant!

There are two potent segments in play here. The story begins with ousted ambassador, now Citizen G’Kar relegated to Narn leader of his subjugated race. He is expounding to the various alien races in the Zocalo that they could be next. Vir watches with a heavy heart and we know he is the discarded moral compass for the Centauri's one darkened Londo Mollari.

G’Kar later meets with an arms smuggler attempting to run weapons through B5 to feed an underground armed Narn resistance to the Narn homeworld. Mr. Chase is an interesting character and judging by the various close-ups and tilted cameras, the director, Mike Vejar, does a great job of creating a visual style that emphasizes what is in process isn’t exactly on the up and up. I really loved alot of the camera work and lighting in this episode.



Garibaldi catches up with G’Kar and the two have a moving exchange. Garibaldi tells him they’ll be no gunrunning through B5 on his watch and when G’Kar relents Garibaldi appreciates his honesty and gives him a tip about a friend’s transfer station in Sector 90 near a jumpgate that might help the Narn cause. G’Kar lights up with a smile. Small victories as they say.

Garibaldi: “I don’t want those weapons coming through the station otherwise this place is gonna go straight to hell.”

G’Kar: “We are already, as you so quaintly put it, going straight to hell. You cannot escape what’s coming.”

Yikes! I love that all the characters like to say "straight to hell!"

In one of the episode's most stunning pieces Vir and G’Kar, played with much aplomb by Stephen Furst and Andreas Katsulas respectively, meet in the always-uncomfortable 'elevator moment'. Given the Narn/ Centauri war it’s even more uncomfortable than normal. It is a simply fantastic, heartbreaking exchange for both. While I am a huge, unabashed G’Kar supporter, proponent, advocate, Vir takes the cake here as he is clearly riddled with guilt over the Narn devastation at the hands of the Centauri. The silence is deafening, as the dissenting conscience of Vir scrambles and fumbles for the right words standing before the seething anguish of G'Kar. The pain is palpable. Katsulas brings such emotional resonance to his part in this show. His talent absolutely bursts through all of that make-up and latex. His could be the most amazing role by someone as an alien I’ve ever seen in a science fiction series. Composer Christopher Franke’s score is understated and lets the scene breathe until its climax. It is powerful, stunning stuff. How does Straczynski do it?



When G’Kar’s ability to lead comes under question by his fellow Narn, he is tasked with finding out about families back on the homeworld to prove his worthiness. He must complete the task within 24 hours or step aside. G’Kar turns to Sheridan for help who understands it is in B5’s best interests to keep him in that role for balance and calm. Interesting to see guys like Sheridan and Garibaldi play backdoor politics throughout the episode in order to maintain stability or aid in doing the right thing while breaking with code. Sheridan assigns Garibaldi the mission of getting the Rangers involved. It would appear this is the first time the Rangers take proactive action rather than stand idly by waiting in the shadows [ewww, bad pun there].

Nice eyebrows Vir. Ya gotta alove those old Grandpa Ben Centauri brows.

The second thread in Comes The Inquisitor, and just as compelling, centers on Delenn and later Sheridan. Delenn is summoned by Kosh and informed she will undergo interrogation by an inquisitor. Kosh intends to determine if Delenn is worthy of the burden she will bear and whether she can be trusted to see it through.

Delenn: “How will I know who it is?”
Kosh: “You will know if you survive.”

Ah that's comforting. We know from Kosh’s always enlightening words Delenn is in for a harrowing journey. He is looking for confirmation that she can be trusted in handling the “coming storm” for the right reasons.

A Vorlon transport ship arrives at B5. A human interrogator of British decent meets with Sheridan, top hat and cane in hand [visual allusion to late 19th Century England]. Sheridan clearly finds it odd that he has been dispatched from Vorlon space. He understandably begins to probe the new arrival. He blocks Sheridan’s overtures for answers with “you’re not ready for the truth.”

A meeting has been established for Delenn in Grey 19. The Inquisitor’s name is Sebastian, the Vorlon's examiner of choice. At first, I thought Wayne Alexander might be delivering an over the top performance, but instead he is deliciously evil and his British pomp is perfect for the execution of questioning. Delenn is informed of the rules. She is free to leave at anytime, but in doing so she would admit defeat and inadequacy and would be forced to answer before the Vorlon. In other words she is a free and willing participant of the inquisition.

Delenn must answer a series of questions and if the answer is unacceptable she receives a technologically advanced form of shock treatment exponentially increased each time from the wack of his cane. The most fascinating is “who are you?”

This sequence is edge-of-your-seat engaging. The harsh, cold Englishman is in direct contrast to Delenn’s soft, gentle but fight-ready soul. The philosophical analysis is terrific because I began asking the question, “Who am I?” I kept applying such contemplations to myself. Sebastian is like that of a drill sergeant. He works to break her and tear her down. Delenn needs to be ready and strong for the coming war. Weakness will not do and will not be tolerated, yet only when she begins to question does Sebastian relent. Curious.

Sebastian: “Who are you?”
Delenn: “I am Delenn” [electrocution continues]
S: “And you have a destiny?”
D: “Yes.”
S: “NO! Be a nice Minbari. Conform! Be quiet! Admit you are inadequate!”
D: “NO!”

Delenn demonstrates true courage and stamina. Sheridan arrives in Grey 19 after being alerted to Delenn’s status by Lennier. When Sheridan enters he becomes part of the inquisition. [All part of the plan-the 'teaching' by Kosh.] “You’re linked at the hip,” announces Sebastian confirming my own belief that the destinies of Delenn and Sheridan’s feel inextricably linked. Delenn comes to Sheridan’s aid who is also being tortured. Delenn demands all life is valuable. Her destiny is life.



The inquisitor informs them both. “How do you know the chosen ones? No greater love hath a man than he lay down his life for his brother. Not for millions. Not for glory. Not for fame- for one person, in the dark, where no one will ever know or see. I have been in the service of the Vorlons for centuries looking for you- Diogenes with his lamp looking for an honest man willing to die for all the wrong reasons. At last, my job is finished. Yours is just beginning. When the darkness comes know this. You are the right people in the right place at the right time.” WHEW! WOW! Signs and portents for sure! I just love the poetry in Straczynski's writing. It really is a beautiful thing.

And in the end, we learn, that fine English gent, that king of torture, king of pain is serving his penance to the Vorlons. Plucked from his ugly existence, the Vorlons show the unidentified killer of late 19th Century London the way. Sebastian was their fitting inquisitor. His alter ego was none other than Jack The Ripper. WOW! This is another exceptional entry deftly penned by Straczynski.

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It's also worth noting the camera direction in this episode is outstanding thanks to Director Mike Vejar. I know Janet Greek and Jim Johnston rank up there I'm sure with the Babylon 5 faithful, but Vejar has contributed some fine contributions and this is clearly one of them.

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Comes The Inquisitor: A-

B5 S2 Ep3: The Geometry Of Shadows Redux

I was looking for a Techno-Mage, I may have taken a wrong turn. Sorry to have troubled you.

I went back to review scenes from Season 2’s The Geometry Of Shadows that essentially seemed fairly innocuous upon initial viewing, but in retrospect I knew there was much more than met the eye. The story centers on the arrival of the Techno-Mages who utilize smoke and mirrors through science to achieve magic.

Londo spots the Techno-Mage arrival and shares the following with Vir:
“Great maker!…a Techno-Mage. Looks like a human. We used to have them back home long ago. They use science to achieve the effect of magic. I haven’t seen one in years. They almost never travel. They don’t like to leave their places of power. To see even one of them is a rare thing. To see more than one at a time is considered a very bad omen. Three... This is definitely not good.”

You can’t help but laugh a little at this scene given all that transpires following The Geometry Of Shadows. It’s definitely another episode I appreciate more now.



This scene speaks volumes about Londo, his quest for power and lends more insight into the Centauri. Again, Stephen Furst as Vir has one of those shining moments.



Later, there is a scene between Londo and Sheridan whereby Londo offers his services in introducing the Techno-Mage to him. Londo's agenda, of course, is to actually meet the Techno-Mage himself. Londo is a masterful politician [or at times attempts to be] trying to manipulate Sheridan for his ulterior motives, but Sheridan is no slouch. Sheridan is a perfect example of never mistaking kindness for weakness. He is savy, unimpressed and clearly aware of the manipulation at hand.

Londo: “I could be of some small assistance.”

Sheridan: “And what would you get out of it?”

Londo: “Oh, a clear conscience and a peaceful sleep.” Uh-huh. I can see Sheridan rolling his eyes.

Interesting points:

Over 100 Techno-Mage are emigrating to an unknown location.

Sheridan mentions God’s presence in creation. Just hearing that sounded so definitive, so powerful and further exemplified the sheer balls in Straczynski’s writing to take risks, take a stand and be unafraid to tell his story.

The Techno-Mage [Elric] tells Sheridan:
Elric: “That is why we are going away, to preserve that knowledge.”

Sheridan: “From what?”

Elric: “There is a storm coming, a black and terrible storm. We would not have our knowledge lost or used to ill purpose. From this place we will launch ourselves into the stars.”
The final moments of The Geometry Of Shadows is the primary reason I wanted to watch this one again. I kept playing Elric’s words over and over in my mind and wondered if I missed anything. Michael Ansara is excellent as Elric. Some of these guest stars turn in some excellent performances thanks to the great material Straczynski has provided them.

Londo [following several spells by Elric]: “Does this torment end when you leave or am I going to have to spend the rest of my life paying for this one mistake?"
Elric: “Oh, I’m afraid you’re gonna have to spend the rest of your life paying for mistakes…. You are touched by darkness ambassador. I see it as a blemish that will grow with time. I could warn you of course, but you would not listen. I could kill you, but someone would take your place, so I do the only thing I can. I go. I see a great hand reaching out of the stars. The hand is your hand, and I hear sounds, the sounds of billions of people calling your name.”

Londo: “My followers.”

Elric: “Your victims.”

It’s interesting Elric points out to Londo that forces at work behind recent events would unfold with or without him. Clearly, Morden and The Shadows found their susceptible pawn in Londo, but would have found another to ensure the inevitable storm would come.

A very bad day to be born to the purple.
On the separate thread regarding the Purple versus Green Drazi war, I was particularly moved by the fine performance of the actors behind the make-up [especially the Green Drazi played brilliantly by Kim Strauss. What a distinctive voice!]. As nuts as they are, they deliver the message to Ivanova with conviction and it is a captivating thread in and of itself. I almost believed Green Drazi made sense for a moment.  The Geometry Of Shadows is a pivotal installment in the second season.

The Geometry Of Shadows: B+

B5 S2 Ep2: Revelations Redux

Almost moving forward again. I'm trying to be expeditious getting through them to get back on track.

Okay friends, so I’ve revisited a few key episodes and it seems as though I’m often taking one step forward and two steps back. This much is true, but I’m caught up in the language and the details. I’m hanging on every word more than ever. I'm appreciating scenes that I once took for granted. I will indeed go back to the very beginning someday to view this story fully enlightened eyes. I definitely glanced over or discarded certain material when I should have been paying closer attention.

Season 2 Revelations is a harbinger in its own right. This is the beginning of a great sadness. G’Kar, more than anyone, is keenly aware of forces at work and is troubled by what's to come almost as if he senses the future. These are desperate times for G’Kar. There is an assortment of powerful moments here that propel The Shadows arc. I erroneously did not lend my full attention to its many details, nuances, subtext. I see this now. I am such an addict.

Revelations begins when G’Kar on a scouting mission narrowly averting death thanks to the sacrifice of his fellow Narn who lure The Shadows’ vessels off G’Kar's ass and allow him time to escape through a jumpgate back to B5. His investment in the Narn bible, the G’Quan, only serves to shore up his belief that an ancient evil has returned. Making matters worse, Londo secretly bears similiar concerns that certain pieces of the puzzle just don't add up. He knows there may be something to that which G’Kar speaks. Despite his own reservations, Londo turns his back on the potentially devastating reality in turn denying his own moral compass in greedy favor of his desire for Centauri glory. Londo would rather turn to the unknown arms of a potentially lethal enemy. His sense of right and wrong is blurred and overruled by his intense hatred of the Narn and his desire for power rather than fortify a coalition for a common good. He is driven by this and The Shadows know it.

It is disturbing, yet delicious material. Londo's fall is compelling television like none I've ever seen, [better even than, dare I say, the fall of Anakin Skywalker in Star Wars one could argue]. Could redemption be a possibility or is his future to be damned? A series that is a revelation indeed.

Revelations: B+

B5 S2 Ep20: The Long, Twilight Struggle

There is beautiful work in this gritty tale right down to the make-up.

Where the hell was I when Babylon 5 was on TV? Where the hell did I go? Did I just check off the planet for a few years? Did I just disappear and forget who I was only to turn up 5 years later clutching a bottle of paint thinner? What the hell was I thinking? Look what I've missed all these years. It isn’t right. It’s troubling actually to think I spaced it and lost out on all of this delicious science fiction. Interplanetary politics, backroom deals, packs with the devil, space battles, alien races and Boxleitner. Whew! This is a tremendous series and it is mesmerizing to watch. My jaw is open at times hanging on every word and every delivery. I am in awe of events that transpire and the consequences that follow. I am enjoying the structure of this series and the serialization of various arcs [The Shadows, Psi Corps, Earth Defense Force, et.] as much if not more than, dare I say, Stargate SG-1. I never thought I would say that, but there it is. Babylon 5 is nothing like I envisioned. What I envisioned I'm not sure, but it wasn't this.

On the whole and maybe weighted toward the second half of Season 2 there is so much information, so much detail. It’s a tremendous, epic mythology that has been brought to life on a visual canvas. There’s also nothing light about the material. I am blown away. Be forewarned people, I have no option but to revisit a few episodes before moving forward. There are forces at work that are pulling me backward.

We arrive at Season 2 Episode 20, The Long, Twilight Struggle, and what a struggle it is for especially for our dear Londo and G’Kar. You can see the pain in Londo as he fights every fiber of his righteous body to do the wrong thing. G’Kar is such a sympathetic figure to me. His pain is palpable. I just wanted to curl up into a fetal position for him by the end of this one. It was excruciating. How does Minbar and the Earth Alliance stand by and not want to bring the full weight of their arsenal upon the Centauri? It's rhetorical. I know the answer, but I just wish they'd damn well do it. The Narn is facing extermination and everyone sits idly by and watches. I suppose it’s much like events in our own world. You'd think the genocide of the Markab would be a wake-up call. Straczynski is a true genius.

We Are Family [sing it!]: G'Kar and Uncle G'Sten.
So, the vile Lord Refa summons Londo to Centauri Prime, while G’Kar meets with his uncle G’Sten at B5. G’Sten informs G’Kar the Narn are re-strategizing and preparing to thrust an all out assault on the Centauri supply world of Gorash 7. The Narn plan is to strike with sharp intensity so the Centauri will pull back. Unbeknownst to the Narn, Refa has intercepted those plans. Refa wants Londo to send his “associates” to Gorash 7 to wipe out the Narn fleet when they arrive, while the Centauri applies its full arsenal against the Narn homeworld in an offensive slaughter. Refa intends to wipe out the Narn utilizing methods outlawed by all civilized races in the form of Mass Drivers [planetary bombers].

Londo is distressed by the plan. You can visibly see and feel his discomfort. Not to mention, Londo is worried about the strength of the Shadows and he should be. Why the Centauri do not question who these “associates” are, their capabilities and the potential havoc they could wreak upon their own world, is a mystery. Now that is a bloodlust for power. Londo expresses his preference to avoid reliance upon the Shadows. Gee, I wonder why Londo? He impresses upon Refa that the Centauri should carve their own destiny without aid. Hmm, perhaps that old sinking feeling is setting in. Refa presses Londo. Londo concedes to the pressure reluctantly and vows it will be the last time he calls upon the assistance of his "associates." Why do I get the feeling it's not going to be that easy.

Later, Refa invites Londo along to oversee the Centauri victory over the Narn and the destruction of the Narn homeworld. It is a haunting image of Londo watching from the window of his vessel the fruits of what his command has enabled. He is deeply disturbed by inner demons and he exhibits his stomach-churning choices as he looks away.

On B5, G’Kar visits wounded Narn strewn throughout the medlab and Dr. Franklin informs him of information given to him by one of the Narn who has died. Dr. Franklin tells G’Kar the deceased Narn was interrogated and the Centauri probed him about Narn homeword defenses. The red flags are waving for G’Kar. He knows the Centauri are thorough and unlikely to finish a job however small, yet he learns their ships have peeled away from various Narn outposts. Why? G’Kar knows and informs G’Sten to pull away from Gorash 7 and retreat back to the Narn homeworld. It looks like a trap yet G’Kar cannot convince G’Sten to go back and protect their home.

And so, despite the urging of G’Kar and his insistence the Narn leave the sector of Gorash 7, the fate of his people sealed, they are instead simply wiped out by the black-fingered hand of evil that is The Shadows. It is a slaughterhouse and retreat is futile. The lethal force of purple-pink firepower kills all. The spiritual G’Kar is deep in frantic prayer, but he knows his people’s fate and his prayers are unanswered. What God does G'Kar pray to?

Upon word of the attack, Narn fighting begins on B5 between, you guessed it, the Narn and Centauri. Yeah, I’d have a problem with mass genocide too. Four days of bombardment later, the Narn surrender and G’Kar’s long, lonely, twilight struggle continues.



Oh poor Londo, how far you have fallen.
Londo calls for an emergency session of the Advisory Council and the League of Non-Alligned Worlds. Londo, despite knowing the atrocities he has committed, with a sure hand commands the audience with his false power. His demands before the council include:

The disbandment of the Narn ruling body who will face arrest and trial for war crimes. [Earth requests a presence but is denied.]

Prevention of acts of terror by Narn upon the Centauri. Such action will result in the execution of 500 Narns for any one Centauri killed.

A provisional ruling council by the Centauri will rebuild a “civilized” Narn government to be a colony under the rule of the Greater Centauri Republic.

Last but not least, Ambassador G'Kar shall henceforth be named Citizen G’Kar.



G'Kar, having a very, very bad day.
In a second thread, Delenn’s friend Draal [now played by a different actor- poor Straczynski really had to do some juggling from time to time] has appeared before her and Sheridan as a holographic image from Epsilon 3 where he is keeper of the Great Machine. With B5 orbiting the planet, and being a mere hop, skip and a jump away, he has requested a visit. It has been one year and Draal offers Sheridan an alliance with Epsilon 3, but it is agreed the information will be kept from the Earth Alliance and between Delenn, Draal and him alone. Hmmm... another secret weapon in the old Babylon 5 back pocket? Good idea. They're gonna need it.

One last note of interest, Draal calls for old friend Zathras [Babylon Squared Season 1] off camera, so we never actually see him. This thread is certainly very important. What does the future hold for B5 and its planetary protector Epsilon 3? The partnership looks to be establishing B5 as a protectorate. We were first alerted to the planet’s defensive power and its secrets [what they are we're not sure because they're secret] in Season 1's A Voice In The Wilderness parts 1 & 2 . The two-part episode established B5’s link with the station and the planet's care in the hands of a Minbari to prevent its destruction. Clearly Epsilon 3, now allied with B5, will continue to play a part in the coming Great War or beyond. Finally, the mention of Zathras ties this emtry not only to the aforementioned two parter, but with Babylon Squared where we first met Zathras. If you recall, Zathras saved Sinclair [not The One] and became pinned by a girder on the unstable Babylon 4. Zathras told Sinclair to "Go" with the others. "You have a destiny." If you remember, The One appears before him in a blue spacesuit. Zathras expressed relief, "Zathras knew you would not leave him. Zathras trusts The One." It's wonderful to see Straczynski come full circle on some of these ties that bind the show. So we definitely receive the first sign here that Zathras is still very much alive.

The Epilogue: Delenn introduces Sheridan to The Rangers, fighters of the coming darkness, army of light. The Rangers have been under Delenn’s command. It is in this moment she transfers equal authority to the now trusted Sheridan. Sheridan and Delenn's association and their roles in the fate of Babylon 5 seem to be closely tied.

The Long, Twilight Struggle: B+

B5 S2 Ep19: Divided Loyalties

Babylon 5 continues its strong second season with Divided Loyalties. It's worth noting that I have said very little about Claudia Christian as Ivanova. I have been drawn to the more masculine tensions between the various races and that has been reflected in my entries. Still, Christian has really grown on me over the season. I think the show would not be the same without her place in it. She is both warm and tough as nails and she plays both sides with her steely Russian resolve very well. I particularly enjoyed her performance here and it was a real highlight. [Beware here comes the male in me] She's also strikingly voluptuous, bodacious and I LOVE those hot lips!

Patricia Tallman, as Lyta Alexander, returns. It is her first appearance since the pilot, The Gathering [which I will be watching soon]. She was the first telepath ever assigned to B5. She’s also the only human to ever scan Ambassador Kosh following an attempted assassination on his life, and it has left an indelible mark on her own mind. She left the station following the incident, according to Garibaldi, and was never quite right.

Lyta has arrived to inform Sheridan there is a traitor aboard B5. The traitor is so deeply programmed not even the affected individual would be are aware of her objective. Lyta has the password to scan all personnel aboard B5 and detect the plant. The paranoid Lyta refuses to be alone with anyone. Sheridan rejects her request initially to take it under consideration first. Lyta has escaped Psi Corps en route to Mars. She’s been trying to penetrate Vorlon space. Of course, as the story goes, those who attempt it never return, but she is drawn to the Vorlons since touching Kosh.

I love pouty Ivanova.
Lyta informs the inner circle [Sheridan, Garibaldi, Ivanova and Dr. Franklin] of a sleeper Psi Corps program in development on Mars creating telepaths directly loyal to the Corps. That programmed personality is so deeply submerged it cannot be identified even by a deep scan.

Meanwhile, Ivanova offers Talia Winters accommodations in her quarters while her room is under repair. Talia informs Ivanova that she is the only one she trusts. Is it me or did it seem like their was some form of female chemistry between the two outside of friendship? I thought the body language was pretty intense during a few moments here. I was thinking kiss at one point.

Late at night [isn’t it always night on B5? I think my internal clock would be royally screwed], Lyta is being transferred and the power shuts down as an attempt on taking her life occurs by someone with a PPG. Even as you watch you know what's coming and you know who it is. It's one of the few times on B5 I haven't been surprised. A guard is killed and one injured. Lyta escapes and turns to Delenn for help. Delenn arranges a meeting with the Sheridan four.

Under the pressure of a potential scan, Ivanova is deeply troubled. Her crisis of conscience is revealed when she breaks into Sheridan’s room and awaits his arrival. She informs him of the stunning revelation that she is a low level telepath [P1], thanks to her mother. Her mother trained her to control her powers and to avoid detection by Psi Corps. Ivanova fears she will be discovered. Sheridan does his best to assist Ivanova. I didn't see that coming. I always took Ivanova's guarded, bad attitude towards telepaths as: a]. part of her personality. b]. what they did to her mother. Straczynski did a nice job taking that thread to the next level.

The inner circle reconvenes and reconnects with Lyta whereby Sheridan consents to the scans. Here is that absolutely classic scene featuring none other than our dear Garibaldi to lighten the load.



I laughed out loud. I may have been drinking something at the time and almost spit. ‘The One To Be Pitied’ heard me in the other room and hollered; “There’s something wrong with you.” [Hey, that’s fine you just keep watching those ridiculous, so-called reality shows.] Anyway, Ivanova inevitably must concede to a scan. She ain’t happy and lets Lyta know it. She naturally blocks her at first, but then relents allowing her secret be revealed unhappily to Lyta.

In the end, Talia enters the room and is almost instantly fingered by Lyta as the mole when she sends the password. Talia opens fire, but is restrained by Garibaldi. So much for "love in the afternoon" between Garibaldi and Talia, but that’s okay. The two took their on screen romance off-screen and married in real life. So, Talia reveals herself to be a stone cold assassin, a complete Psi Corps bitch! She was the one who had been programmed from the start [beyond her control]. I suspected as much since she exhibited signs of deception back in Season 2's Spider In The Web. Sheridan remarks how close she was to becoming part of the inner circle. Whew! That was a close one. They were just days away from bringing her in. So that’s all she wrote for Ms. Winters, but she isn’t dead, just in custody remember, so perhaps it's not the last we've seen of her.

Andrea Thompson delivers a nice turn and really lets loose in the part especially in those final minutes. The sequence between Ivanova and Thompson is quite good. Ivanova’s reaction was disturbed and she plays it with genuine affect. Afterall, Ivanova was very reluctant to let down her walls to a telepath and it took her nearly two seasons to do so. The storyline was handled with genuine logic by Straczynski. Her acceptance of Talia was a real step for Ivanova especially given her secret and her make-up. When Talia exhibits her true colors, Ivanova is emotionally betrayed. It’s ironic, because Ivanova’s instinct about her was right all along and it wasn’t until the end when she feels so violated on a number of levels. Ivanova's reaction is one of disappointment in herself as much as it is in Ms. Winters. Good stuff. The wounded Ivanova is precisely why I have grown to love her character. She has definitely supplanted Ms. Winters as the show's new certified hottie in my book!

The secondary thread continues to witness Delenn and Sheridan developing feelings for one another outside of their professional relationship. There is an undeniable attraction between the two characters. I love her smile, but truthfully that head bone may get a bit problematic if things get intimate.

The epilogue sees Lyta visit Kosh one last time in the alien sector. She has kept her knowledge of him locked away and Kosh knows this and reveals himself to her again. Bright light shines down upon her face. It's a bit of heaven for Lyta.

Divided Loyalties: B

Delenn: “I find this notion of the press a fascinating, but sometimes troubling concept.”
Sheridan: “Join the club.”
*
Sheridan: “Why is it everytime you finally get things calmed down and everything’s going great life decides to kick you in the butt.”
Delenn: "But what?"

Sheridan: "What?"

B5 S2 Ep 17-18: Knives & Confessions And Lamentations

It's fitting to see Boxleitner play ball here. I have been a little slow of late to keep a steady pace with Babylon 5. I've been coaching baseball, shagging baseballs and running around the ballfield keeping up with my team of late. Folks! I'm in a lot of pain. Some nights I can't move. Anyway, if I get a little behind it's because I'm doing precisely what Sheridan is doing here along with a million other things. So my apologies in advance for any delays.

Despite the pleasant engagements of life outside the blogosphere, I LOVE this show! It bums me out when I cannot get to the screen for the next entry. It's interesting how certain elements of the show are true highlights for me, when those same sequences might not be for another. Granted, the show as a whole is mostly thrilling. I also like to take pictures of the things that stand out for me. Anyway, off we go...

Babylon 5 eases off the Shadows’ accelerator a touch, but maintains momentum concerning its many colorful character-driven stories and heavy drama for Episodes 16 & 17.

Knives [Episode 16] focuses on two threads. First, Sheridan visits a portion of B5 that is considered the "B5 triangle" as a result of strange phenomena. He finds an alien seemingly dead, but is grabbed and an energy force enters Sheridan’s body unbeknownst to him at first. Slowly, Sheridan is haunted by apparitions of significance. He discovers the alien that touched him in the ‘B5 triangle’ passed through Sector 14 [location of the time anomaly where Babylon 4 had appeared]. Of course, Sheridan is uninformed concerning B4 & Sector 14 due to the fact all records reflecting the B4 [Babylon Squared Season 1] incident had been destroyed, except those copied and retained by the always savy and vigilant Garibaldi. Sheridan slowly realizes the messages are the life form’s way of communicating to him to go home. Sheridan commandeers a Starfury to the site and a portal opens as the energy form rushes from Sheridan's body. Garibaldi is there to bring him home an incapacitated Sheridan.

Elsewhere, the sublime performance of Londo continues and it is a beautiful thing to behold. An old friend, Urza Jaddo, visits him. Londo learns Jaddo's entire house is being disgraced as traitor back on Centauri Prime. Urza looks to the prestige of his old pally Londo for help. Londo demands his friend and co-conspirator, Lord Refa, drop all charges against Urza, but this is problematic for Refa because he is the one that has brought those charges against the house of Jaddo. Well, things get heated. I love when things get heated on B5. Always good fun! Londo’s association with Lord Refa whom he refers to as an “assassin” incenses Urza. In the end, as is Centauri custom, Urza challenges Londo to a knife duel. Sadly, Londo dies. Kidding. Seriously, Urza dies, but dies with honor and as is customary under Centauri law his death protects his remaining family and House Mollari must assume care for House Jaddo as the victor. This is great space tragedy. It really is deliciously tragic stuff.

Confessions And Lamentations [Episode 17] places the spotlight smack dab on the reality of genocide. It’s like looking in a mirror for our own world. A ship of Markab is found floating in space. All aboard are found dead. A lethal infection has been brought aboard B5. Like the Bird Flu, will the viral strain mutate and jump species? Sheridan places B5 under quarantine. He places the Markab in an isolation zone. Lennier and Delenn break the quarantine to offer compassion to the dying. Before Delenn leaves, Sheridan tells her when they meet again to call him “John.” Something is stirring between these two. There is much tenderness in this episode. Dr. Franklin believes he may have a cure. When the seal is broken, Sheridan and company find Lennier and Delenn standing alone amidst plague-riddled bodies lifelessly strewn across the area. All have died. Delenn embraces Sheridan in agonizing pain and tears. It is quite moving. The plague is believed to have wiped out over two billion Markab and left the race nearly eradicated. The show fearlessly handles issues on the grand scale of civilization that give you pause.

Knives may be my favorite non-Straczynski-penned story. As a B5 friend has noted, Straczynski takes over writing chores from this point forward. It's a surprise to anyone he wasn't smoking 12 packs of ciggies a day and going on an alcohol bender from the stress of it all. It's a tribute to his talent and passion for the story because the series really flows with him at the helm. When he was 'in' an 'out' of those responsibilities in Season 1 it really felt disjointed at times among other establishing reasons. But strap on your seatbelt because you are now boarding the Straczynski express.

Knives: B+ [Carmen Argenziano guests as Ursa Jaddo; Argenziano is most notable for his recurring role on Stargate SG-1 as Samantha Carter's father Jacob/ Selmak].

Confessions And Lamentations: C

Londo [from Knives]: “The blood is already on my hands. Right or wrong, I must follow the path to its end. I want to sleep- if I can.” It's like friggin' William Shakespeare and Julius Caesar.

Delenn [from Confessions And Lamentations]: “Faith manages.” The sound wisdom of a true sage.

B5 S2 Ep 16: In The Shadow Of Z'Ha'Dum

[Man running breathlessly to top of mountain]

"I LOVE THIS SHOW! I AM A BELIEVER! BEHOLD BABYLON 5!" There I’ve said it!
Ba-da-bing, ba-da-boom for Z’Ha’Dum [that just had a nice ring to it]! Season 2's In The Shadow Of Z'Ha'Dum is absolutely freakin’ brilliant! Babylon 5 at its absolute best!

Ed Wasser returns as Morden and like many of the series recurring characters he is always a joy to watch. He has a meaty role and he delivers it with sinister confidence and likeable creepiness.

The entry is jam-packed with information.

The story begins with Morden meeting Vir in the Zocalo where Vir really demonstrates some major stones and lets Morden have it with both barrels. It is a delicious exchange.

Elsewhere on the ship, Sheridan is reviewing the ship manifest of his wife’s science vessel the Icarus. Garibaldi arrives and makes note of one of the crew pictured on the monitor. Curiously it is none other than Morden. Garibaldi informs Sheridan he knows him. Of course this is impossible because everyone on board the Icarus perished. Alas, apparently not, Garibaldi checks the computer and informs Sheridan Morden is still very much alive. Where is he? He's still on B5. Sheridan demands him found and arrested for interrogation. This leads to yet another impressive mental duel throughout the episode between Wasser and Boxleitner. They too are at their best!



Sheridan: “What happened to the Icarus?”
Morden: “I told you I don’t know. I don’t remember.”
Sheridan: “Well you damn well better start remembering mister because by God by the time I am done with you, you will wish you had died on the Icarus.”

Sheridan means it. He is pissed off and in a frighteningly vengeful mood! Nevertheless, Morden is about as cool as cucumbers get. It was a nice turn to witness Sheridan’s judgment clouded with his personal agenda. If you recall, his head was clear when he advised G’Kar against revenge upon Londo in The Coming Of Shadows, but all of that is out the window now that his wife's demise appears uncertain. He feels rage standing in G’Kar’s shoes. He needs significant help to come down off this cliff, but does eventually get it. This is one of the best elements of B5. Behavior, choices, consequences are all part of the exceptional writing by Straczynski. Further, this one is loaded with uncomfortable intimacy. It is riveting space drama.

Things get heated internally when Garibaldi presses Sheridan on the illegal detention of Morden. If charges are not applied, the honorable Garibaldi threatens to resign his command. As Security Chief he is a proponent of the law and inevitably resigns. Sheridan promotes Zack "Greased Lightning" Allan to Security Chief as a result. The pressure builds as Sheridan continues to lean hard on Morden by requesting the telepathic assistance of Talia Winters. Meanwhile, upon hearing of Morden's incarceration, Vir approaches Sheridan on behalf of Londo and requests Morden’s release as a guest of Centauri Prime. Vir emphasizes diplomatic immunity for Morden. Sheridan, cleverly turns the tables on Vir and informs him that Morden is in protective custody, has not been charged with a crime and is therefore ineligible for diplomatic immunity.

Sheridan continues to feel the strain placed upon him for Morden's release. Upon learning Ms. Winters has declined the scan for legal reasons Sheridan gets cute. He arranges for Morden and Winters to cross paths on board B5. Winters sees Shadows surrounding Morden and is left disturbed at the images revealed. She lets Sheridan have it.

Delenn and Kosh learn of Morden’s retention. Both request his immediate release from B5 and inform Sheridan of the last Great War with the Shadows, 1,000 years ago. The Shadows were defeated then by the First Ones, but not destroyed. Kosh is one of the last of the First Ones. His encounter suit protects his identity. The Vorlons have been guardians watching and waiting for the Shadows’ return. Delenn pleads with Sheridan to do the right thing and that lives, outside of his own redresses, are depending upon it.

Delenn: “Be warned. Once you know his secret. You will never sleep again. Come Captain, the greatest nightmare of our time is waiting for you.”

Here is an intense segment of revelation surrounding the Icarus and the Shadows.

*

A furtive trust between Kosh and Delenn dates back at least to Chrysalis [the Season 1 finale]. Delenn had Lennier ask Kosh if 'they' had returned and his singular answer was “Yes.” At the time we weren't entirely clear on what had inspired Delenn to move toward transformation. In The Shadow Of Z’Ha’Dum continues to capitalize on those earlier seeds surrounding Delenn, Kosh and G’Kar. A revisit of that episode may be in order.

Sheridan is forced to relent, much as G’Kar's hand was forced to yield to Sheridan despite learning of the attack on his beloved Narn. Sheridan orders Morden’s release to ensure the Shadows’ continue to believe they are still moving unmolested and undiscovered, at Delenn's urging. It was Delenn who reminded Sheridan of his own call for calm from G'Kar in Acts of Sacrfice. I understand the omniscience of Kosh, but how did Delenn know what Sheridan had told G'Kar about letting go of revenge? She wasn't present during that exchange.

The epilogue is splendid as well. Sheridan informs Kosh in the alien sector that he himself will someday go to Z’Ha’Dum. Kosh tells him he will die, but he agrees to teach Sheridan how to fight the Shadows. This is hands down, kick ass stuff! The amazing Straczynski story continues.

Oh! In a new thread I’m sure will be important later, The Ministry Of Peace has offered credits [payment] to B5 security personnel for wearing a new patch dubbed the Nightwatch program. Yikes! Jeff Conaway earns the cringeworthy speaking role. Gasp!

In The Shadow Of Z’Ha’Dum: A