This story was based on the Babylon 5 universe by J. Michael Straczynski.
The Long Trial, Part Two  (chapters 9-14)
Chapter 9:  Minbar
By R. Bernstein

It was the end of the first week of February back home, as HavahÕs little 
transport docked in the landing facility on Yedor, MinbarÕs capitol. It had been 
an interesting few weeks, and was about to get far more interesting. Carmen 
and other public health and med lab people had thrown her a goodbye potluck, 
with a dark chocolate cake. And they had all pitched in and gotten her a tee-shirt 
with a Babylon 5 Public health logo over the breast in front, and "Staff", spelled 
instead "Staph," for ŌstaphylococcusÕ across the back. Only a bunch of geeks, 
she thought fondly, missing them already. At least CommanderÉAmbassador 
Sinclair is here and IÕll get to say hi. The view had been positively gorgeous. 
The air looked so fresh. She knew the air recycling units on Babylon 5 made 
the air clean, but it wasnÕt the same. She pressed her nose to the window, until 
they docked. The door opened and they were herded into a central processing 
bay. A bureaucrat in a tan and blue tunic began sifting through papers. Armed 
guards in black, with pistols stood menacingly on either side of the entrance 
past the bureaucrat. I donÕt think anyoneÕs going to try to book it past them, she 
thought. 

When it was her turn, she handed her card to the man. He read her name and 
information and looked up at her, puzzled, and looked back at the card, double-
checking. Just as he was flipping the card over, one of the guards approached 
and demanded to see her card. He took the card from the seated man. He 
glared at her balefully. Havah wanted to melt into the floor. He motioned the 
other guard over and showed him her card. He said something in Minbari to his 
partner, and the second guard drew his gun and shoved her down on the 
ground, shackling her wrists. They pulled her up roughly, yelling harshly at her 
in Minbari, as if saying it louder would make her understand. One of the guards 
grabbed her bags and began pulling out clothing and books. She just hoped 
they didnÕt do strip searches. 

As he went through the bag, another Minbari male in white and tan robes 
entered hurriedly through the door and up to the guards, shouting at them as 
he approached, and another one followed him. As soon as the guards saw 
him, they halted. The one searching through her bag drew his hand 
immediately out, and stood looking at his feet. The man then said in 
impeccable English, for her benefit. "Release her at once." The warrior holding 
her lowered his gun and undid the restraints. She edged away from him. The 
man continued, "This woman is here at the request of the Grey Council. She is 
to be treated with respect. Such behavior towards her will not occur again. 
Return to your posts." 

They did so without another word, or another glance at her. Oh, so they 
understand English, do they? She thought acerbically. 

Havah repacked her bags, and the younger man held out his hands to take 
them from her. "OhÉthank youÉuhÉShu loa renÉuhÉsorry if I just butchered 
that." She attempted the phrase in Religious Caste Minbari, uncertain whether 
that was even the correct caste. But he smiled widely and bowed. 

Then the man who had defended her spoke, bowing diplomatically.  "I 
apologize for the incident. I should have been here to meet you. I am Rathenn. I 
hope that your tripÉuntil nowÉhas been uneventful. Please let us escort you to 
your quarters. I imagine that you are tired from the trip and wish to relax. It is a 
long flight. This is my aide Korat. He will assist you with your belongings." They 
began walking. 

As soon as she heard his name, Havah realized whom she was speaking to. 
She had read thoroughly the information Delenn had given her. They had sent a 
member of the Grey Council itself to meet her at the dock. Geez, they really are 
serious. She dropped her eyes when she replied, as indicated by protocol. 
"Thank you, Satai Rathenn. Actually, itÕs my fault, I think I came on an earlier 
shuttle than originally scheduled."

"It is not necessary for you to address me formally here, Miss Lassee. But I 
appreciate your attention to our customs."

She looked up at him and smiled. He was younger than she had first 
assumed, close to her in age. He had quite a Roman nose, for someone who 
hadnÕt a drop of Roman blood. His robe reminded her of the dress worn by the 
Roman senators. Appropriate. And Satai was a term equivalent to ŌHonorable.Õ 
The other young man, Korat, hefted her bags without effort and glanced shyly at 
her. He was tall and appeared to be in his early twenties or late teens, or 
whatever the equivalent was here. It was hard to tell though, since the Minbari 
were a long-lived race. As soon as they stepped outside the building, the feel 
and smell of the air overwhelmed her and she paused, inhaling deeply. 
Rathenn also paused. "You have been on the station for a very long time?"

"A year."

"It is likely to rain later this afternoon."

"I know I can smell it."

"YesÉit is a pleasant smell, and we have a great deal of it here. If you do not 
have suitable garments for our weather we can provide them."

"Oh, no, thank you, I have plenty. I never got rid of my clothes from New York, 
and it seems like the climate is similar."

"New York?ÉAh, Ōthe Big Apple?Õ I have read about this place. Very exciting."

Havah laughed. "Yeah, itÕs quite a place."

A flyer was waiting for them. After Havah climbed in and got her belts fastened, 
Rathenn continued. "Your quarters are in the western side of the city, near the 
diplomatic office. They are in close proximity to Ambassador SinclairÕs and also 
to many of what we consider cultural forums. We can assign you an assistant 
to guide you through the city and help with your information-gathering."

"Oh, thank you, that would be very helpful!"

"The attache will also be able to help you with our languageÉalthough it 
seems as though you have made a good start. Our languages and dialects are 
difficult to those who do not grow up speaking them. There is much meaning in 
simple nuance or inflection, as you will find."

She blushed, remembering her meager attempt. The flyer arrived at a large 
elegant compound. There was a courtyard beyond the parking area and the 
initial entrance, and a pond with a crystal fountain to one side. Tall trees 
shaded it and were dotted about the yard and next to the residences. They 
entered a lift that irised closed after her, although there was also a curving 
stairway carved of some opaque jade-like stone. Her quarters were spacious, 
a room for sleeping, a room for study, a central room for guests or leisure, a 
wash-room for daily cleansing rituals, and a food preparation area, although 
Rathenn informed her that someone would be bringing her meals, since she 
was not familiar with Minbari cuisine as yet. There was also a rather large open 
patio with a couple of benches. How much would this cost if she wasnÕt Ōan 
honored guest of the Grey CouncilÕ?! Rathenn noticed her expression. "I hope 
this is sufficient for your needs. If it is not we canŃ"

"Oh, no Satai Rathenn, this is just fine! ItÕsÉitÕs huge! You should have seen 
my quarters aboard the station. They were the size of this one room!"

He smiled graciously. "Yes, well we have a bit more space available. I am 
pleased that they suit you. We will leave you now to rest from your journey. Here 
is a link to our central network if you have need of anything. It is capable of 
sending transmissions to interplanetary coordinates as well. I imagine that 
your family will wish to know that you arrived safelyÉ"

GreatÉCable! She thought.

Rathenn led her to the washing room and indicated the antibacterial lamp and 
the Minbari version of a toilet. It appeared to use chemicals rather than water. In 
the corner was a very Human-looking shower. "It was brought to our attention 
that Human skin does not tolerate the cleansing chemicals that we use, so we 
acquired one of theseÉshowers."

Her eyes widened. "Satai Rathenn, wow, thank you, this was done for us?!"

"We will need to include them in units in many places in this city, if we expect 
other races, Humans, Centauri, other races that use water in this manner, to 
visit Minbar for any length of time."

"Oh, I see." Havah nodded gratefully. 

"In some areas we have sonic ŌshowersÕ, where it is too difficult to recycle 
water, just as you had on the station. But we have learned that this type of 
shower is very pleasant and relaxing, and I have heard from friends in 
architecture and engineering that some Minbari are beginning to request 
them."

"SoÉWhat do Minbari do? I meanÉ" She didnÕt know how to ask the question 
without being rude, Ōhow do you bathe?Õ "If you donÕt use water in the same way 
as Humans?"

AhÉ" Rathenn paused. "At night we exude a compound similar to your sweat. It 
is a type of oil which simultaneously gets rid of toxins, and also keeps our skin 
healthy against microbes. We get rid of the excess in the morning by using a 
chemical compoundÉI believe you would call it a ŌpeelÕ. It hardens and we use 
a sonic device like a shower, to remove the particles."

"OhÉFascinating. So what did Minbari use before sonic showers?"

"We usedÉscrapersÉVery hard on the skin. But that was centuries ago."

"Just like the Greeks."

Rathenn looked puzzled for a moment. And then a light dawned. "Yes, I believe I 
have read about these Greeks. I did not know this about them. They also used 
such a method, did they not have Human physiology?"

"Oh, they did, but fresh water was precious and Humans have experimented 
with different ways of cleaning, plumbing, building. All dependent on the culture 
and region."

"Yes, Humans have many cultures. And it seems they change greatly over 
time." He nodded curiously. "We have as much to learn about Humans as you 
have to learn about us. I do hope that you will assist us in such education. In 
the meantime, I will leave you to your leisure, for a while. Someone will be sent 
with the mid-day meal. We tried to select food most similar to Earth foods, at 
least until your system adjusts. And then if you would, please join me for 
debriefing. Since you are new here, I will return to escort you in five solar hours. 
Is that sufficient?"

"Yes, Satai Rathenn. ThatÕs plenty. Thank you."

He and his attachˇ bowed and left. After he left, Havah wandered over to the 
console and turned it on. After a year on a space station, still, the first thing she 
gravitated to was the television. Sad, she thought. LetÕs see what kinds of 
programs the Minbari watch. The first channel appeared to be a news program, 
although she couldnÕt understand a word. The next channel was airing some 
sort of play, from the dramatic tones of voice and inflections. Another channel 
aired some sort of historical show or a thesis on architecture and engineering 
by the scenery. Another revealed what appeared to be a religious ritual, and 
finally, there was of all things, a cooking show. She could recognize a show 
about food anywhere in the galaxy, and they didnÕt appear to have many 
differences from planet to planet. She couldnÕt understand the woman, but the 
sight of the food was making her hungry. She switched off the monitor and went 
outside. As she stood marveling at the stone in the staircase, it began to 
drizzle, and then pour. It felt wonderful. Havah whooped and half-ran, half-slid 
the rest of the way down the stairs. She was soaked to the skin by the time she 
got to the middle of the courtyard. Thunder cracked nearby as she kicked off her 
shoes and socks, hoping there was no taboo against showing oneÕs feet. A 
Minbari female stopped on her way, in the entrance to the flyer-yard, watching 
the spectacle Havah was making. Havah didnÕt care, it was so nice to be 
planet-side. She hiked her elbows up and stomped as hard as she could in the 
growing puddle around her, sending splashes everywhere, jumping up and 
down for good measure, laughing uproariously. The woman probably already 
thought her insane. Atta way to meet the neighbors, she thought. She tilted her 
head back and watched with squinted eyes, as the drops sliced through the air, 
dousing her face and outstretched tongue with cold kisses. The woman 
cleared her throat. Havah looked down as the woman approached, holding up 
an edge of a long water-proof sheet. "Are you well?"

You mean, Are you crazy? "Yes, IÕm fine, thank you." Havah shouted over the 
thunder. "IÕve just been on a space-station for a year. I missed the rain."

"Yes, I see. I can understand that. My name is Birin. Many people just call me 
Bir."

"Beer? ThatÕs quite a name. My name is Havah." She extended her hand, but as 
Birin went to take it she slipped on the wet grass and sprawled, elegant robes 
in the mud. Havah desperately tried to stifle a guffaw and failed. She held out 
her hand to help Bir, before she could look any more hurt, and asked if she was 
ok. 

Bir sat for a moment and then burst into giggles and took HavahÕs hand. At that 
moment, Havah knew she would end up on the ground. It seemed like a 
universal law that such situations had to end ungracefully. At BirÕs hearty yank, 
Havah tumbled into the puddle next to her, splashing streaks of mud all over 
both of them, sending Bir into gales of laughter. 

"Hey," Havah said, sitting mournfully in the mud, "You did that on purpose!" 

Bir couldnÕt answer through gasps for air. Havah grinned, already liking this 
woman. How could I not! Her name is Beer! After regaining her composure, Bir 
replied, standing to help Havah up, "I am sorry. I do not know what came over 
me." She smiled. 

"No, itÕs fine, I was already wet. I like stomping in the rain."

"YesÉ" Bir ran a couple of steps and leaped into the dead-center of an 
enormous puddle, laughing again, and shaking her ruined robes. "When I was 
a child, I used to do the same thing. My mother used to reprimand me for 
destroying my temple clothes." She gave Havah a sly grin.

"Temple?"

"Yes, my parents used to bring me. They were both in the service of the main 
temple here in Yedor. I joined as anÉacolyte, is your word?"

"So what do you do?" They walked to the entrance, and stood dripping.
 
"I preserve and monitor some of our sacred scrolls. Soon, I will begin 
investigation of the scrolls of other worlds and compare them to ours."

"Oh, so you do text analysis?"

"Yes, that is a good description. What do you do?"

"Well, IÕm here to write an ethnography, I think. I was brought here to gather 
information about Minbari culture and compile it in a way that can be 
understood by other races."

BirÕs smile widened. "So you seek information about us. And I am very curious 
about Humans! We must talk sometime. I have to go change, I have an 
appointment, but perhaps we can speak later? You are quartered here, yes?"

"Yes, my room is right up there." Havah moved into the rain and pointed to her 
veranda.

"I have the rooms all the way to the right, that way." Bir indicated the corner. "I 
will be home tonight, if you wish to call." She bowed and hurried into the 
deluge. Havah shook her head and returned to her quarters, squeaking a trail 
of water and mud across the alabaster floor. She changed into dry clothes, 
shivering, and mopped up with a plush towel that had been left near the 
shower. The door chimed and a man in tan robes arrived with her supper. He 
entered briskly, bowed and then left, having spoken not a word. Hmm. Havah 
paused, but didnÕt spare much thought. She was starving. She sat down and 
looked at the food. It was the most peculiar culinary assemblage she had ever 
seen. There was a fat slab of meat looking like sirloin, drenched with 
something that tasted suspiciously like curry, a small cup of grains, like puffed 
rice, and a dollop of pudding-like cream, with a handful of boiled red beans to 
the side. It was as though, unable to know which of EarthÕs foods would be 
appropriate, they decided to try to include as many as they could fit onto one 
plate. As her nose got near one of the beans, she got a whiff of peppery steam. 
Whoa, this is hot! She touched it to the tip of her tongue and spent the next few 
minutes gulping water to relieve the burn. Funny, I always thought their food 
would be bland. Maybe they are trying to kill me. After the meal, she brought 
the dishes to the kitchen area, which had a sonic washer. 

Trell!, she remembered. Of course she remembered him in connection with 
food. He said if I was ever in townÉI wonder if his coordinates are still good? In 
the disorganization of arriving and settling, she had completely forgotten about 
trying to contact him, and now searched through her bags and papers for his 
information. She left a message, since he didnÕt appear to be there. It was nice 
to see a familiar face. He didnÕt look much different on the recording, than he 
had when she met him in New York. She went into the bedroom to lie down for 
a spell. Bedroom was a loose term, considering that the tilted contraption at the 
side of the room looked nothing like a bed. It was a long padded pallet tilted at 
a forty-five degree angle. She glared cynically at it and then took out her 
sleeping bag and laid down on the floor next to it, without even trying to mount it. 
She curled into a ball and fell asleep for a couple of hours.

 When Rathenn chimed at the door, she was ready, having donned a skirt, 
blouse and business blazer and raincoat.

"How was your meal? Was it to your satisfaction?"

"Oh, yes, it was interesting. What were those peppers?"

"Terkala beans. They are relished among the Warrior Caste. We thought 
perhaps that this would be appropriate, but we also wanted to provide you with 
foods similar to foods from your home-world, to give your system time to adjust 
to new cuisine. One of the cooks found something on Babylon 5 called curry. 
She said it is a common Human spice."

A laugh escaped before Havah could stop it. "Yes, it is. ItÕs from India." Havah 
followed Rathenn into the street. The polished flagstones echoed in the quiet 
corridor as a rainy breeze sang through a pair of crystal cupolas across the 
road. Out on the main thoroughfare, people bustled and flyers glided past. They 
turned through a few broad streets and approached a small complex with a 
diminutive Earth Alliance flag marking the entrance. This was the embassy 
building and diplomatic office. Rathenn bowed slightly to her, ushering her into 
the central foyer before him. 

He pressed a com panel on the wall and a familiar voice answered, 
Ambassador Sinclair. "Please Rathenn, come in." 

As Havah walked in, SinclairÕs rare grin greeted her. He was dressed in formal 
Earth-style business wear. She couldnÕt remember the last time she had seen 
him out of uniform. It must be killing him, she thought amusingly. He grabbed 
her outstretched hand and pulled her into a bear-hug, clapping her on the back. 
"ItÕs nice to see you, Havah. YouÕre looking great. How was your trip over?" She 
paused, never having experienced the reserved commander so effusive. 

"UhÉgreat. ItÕs been a while since IÕve traveled anywhere. This is a beautiful 
city. IÕve never seen architecture like this."

"Yes, the Minbari strive for symmetry and confluence with the surrounding 
landscape. So their buildings are designed to either blend into the landscape 
or accent its natural features. IÕve been reading up a little, with some 
assistance." Sinclair tapped a book on his desk. It had flowing strokes of 
Minbari script on the cover. 

So he knows how to read Minbari already, Havah thought. I wonder if he was 
studying it on the station? 

"I imagine youÕll get to learn quite a bit about it while youÕre studying with them." 
He hoisted a pile of paperwork. "I have the documents you need here. So if you 
would like, we can get these processed now." He indicated seats.

They sat and Rathenn explained to both her and Sinclair. "In the interest of 
efficiency, it was decided to brief both of you on HavahÕs assignment together. 
As you know, we have requested you as anÉethnographer. We would like you 
to gather cultural information and reproduce it in aÉsensitive manner for the 
dispersal to other races that may have an interest in coming here, or in having 
extensive contact with the Minbari.  We will provide you with an assistant to help 
you learn our languages more readily. They are said to be quite difficult for 
other races. We will also provide you with guides, when necessary, to different 
regions, as you request. However, the reason that I wished to brief both of you, 
is that in order to produce this material for non-Minbari visitation, we thought it 
prudent to also have you assigned as an intern to Ambassador Sinclair. For the 
duration of much of your study, he will need to keep the attachˇ we have 
assigned him, but it would benefit both of you to have Havah spend a few hours 
per week here, or as available, learning the tasks of a diplomatic office.  We 
also thought that perhaps since the two of you knew each other, it would 
provide some comfort in the adjustment period. The Minbari do not often 
venture to live among off-worlders, so I can only imagine how difficult 
adjustment must be, to be so far away from other Humans. You areÉpioneers 
here. Have either of you any questions so far?"

Sinclair leaned back in his chair. "No, that sounds like a good idea to me. And 
IÕll be happy to work with Miss Lassee. In fact, thereÕs a tour group of Humans 
coming in the day after tomorrow, if youÕd like to come here for an hour or so in 
the afternoon."

Havah nodded. "Yes, thank you, that would be a good introduction. Would it be 
possible to begin the language lessons tomorrow?" 

Rathenn smiled. "Absolutely. I will send someone over to you tomorrow 
morning at 0900 hours. Is this too early?" 

"No, not at all. That would be fine."

"In addition, if you wish, a family I am familiar with has offered to host you as a 
guest for a period, to assist with orientation, and information gathering. They 
are well-known and will give you a foot-hold in the community here, with their 
sponsorship."

"That sounds like a great idea, as long as IÕm not intruding."

"Not at all. It is our tradition to host seekers of knowledge. The only difference 
has been that in the past, all seekers have been Minbari from other regions. 
They are most eager to meet you and learn more about Humans. They also 
seek knowledge from you. So you see, this is benefiting them as well. This 
exchange promises to be quite exciting really. Shall I take you to meet them?"

"Yes, please." An anthropologistÕs wet dream, Havah thought.

"Very well, I will take you tomorrow after your first language lesson."

"Thank you!"

Rathenn continued. "As far as administrative needs, please give me a list of 
necessary supplies as soon as possible, so that I can have them delivered to 
you. All that remains, aside from the documentation, is medical issues. We 
have a physician prepared to give you a preliminary examination." At HavahÕs 
suddenly apprehensive glance, he continued. "I understand that this may be 
unnerving, but since we have very little data on Human physiology, and we wish 
to be able to provide you with appropriate care should you require it. A couple of 
our physicians at least, should have preliminary information on which to base 
assessments. This is not a requirement, of course. We merely suggest it in the 
interest of good health practice."

Havah sighed. "You need a baseline, I understand." She didnÕt want to insult 
Rathenn by confirming with Sinclair in front of him, butÉ"Did you do the exam 
already?"

"Yes, they were just like Human doctors, I donÕt think the discipline varies 
much. But I know your reservations about doctors in general." He said 
noncommittally.

If I go, they will know about my genetics. How could they miss it? But RathennÕs 
right. This is a strange planet with strange people and strange food, who knows 
what could happen? Maybe they wonÕt notice. Not all doctors figure it out, and 
this is just routine, right? Even if they figure it out, they have no way of knowing 
who to look for. ThereÕve gotta be a billion Minbari on this planet alone.  "Alright, 
I guess it is a good idea. When do I go?"

"At your earliest convenience."

"Well, I guess IÕll get it over with as soon as he or she is available and get that 
out of the way."

Rathenn went to the com panel and contacted one of the female physicians, 
who agreed to see her after their meeting. He returned to the desk, smiling 
reassuringly at her. "She is a very good physician, and very respectful." 

Havah smiled back wanly. They plodded through the pile of documentation with 
unfortunate speed. That was the first time Havah had ever wanted to prolong 
the drudgery of paperwork. When they left to go to the medical facility, Havah 
barely kept her feet from visibly dragging. A pear-shaped Minbari woman in light 
gray robes greeted them. They looked like a cross between laboratory and 
religious robes. What an unnerving combination, Havah thought miserably. 
She smiled warmly at Havah and gestured to a seat near a broad slanted cot. 
There were medical-looking devices on tables in the corners. There was a 
skylight providing ambient light, and the air was warm. 
Rathenn introduced the woman. "This is Kral Situr. Kral means healer. " Kral 
Situr bowed deeply. "Kral, this is Havah Lassee." He lapsed into Minbari. The 
kral nodded, smiling reassuringly at Havah. Rathenn turned to Havah. "They 
will contact me after the examination so that you can be escorted back to your 
quarters." He bowed and left, shutting the door behind him for privacy.

 Havah stared at her, fighting the impending anxiety attack that was constricting 
her lungs. Kral Situr put her hand on HavahÕs shoulder and said in slightly 
accented English. "It is alright. I have sent to Babylon 5 for your current medical 
file, so I only need to get some readings, and a few blood tests, unfortunately. I 
do wish to be thorough. But there is no need to be concerned. After my 
colleague saw your Ambassador Sinclair, we are finding that Humans and 
Minbari are not too different for our medicine. If you will, please lay down on the 
cot."

Havah obeyed, sliding with the angle, still gazing at her with round eyes. 

Kral Situr glanced at HavahÕs face as she calibrated her scanner. "We have 
many strong and fearless warriors here, and every last one of them appears to 
get nervous at the mention of a healer. They pretend that they do not care, of 
course. But it is as obvious as children trying to hide their vegetables in the 
chorka plants. Why is that, Miss Havah Lassee? You are a great warrior, can 
you tell me why warriors who stare down death are so afraid of simple 
physicians?"

Havah had to crack a smirk, at the mention of their warriorsÕ discomfiture. At 
least itÕs not just me. "No maÕam, IÕm afraid I donÕt know what youÕre talking 
about."

The kral gave her a knowing smile and began scanning her head. "Ah, and as 
stubborn as ours, I see." She ran the scanner slowly down the length of 
HavahÕs body, looking puzzled.

Havah laughed, and then looked in fascination at the display on the wall. It was 
like looking into a mirror that could see underneath your skin. That was the one 
thing she found interesting about doctor visits. Like a chimp staring in awe at 
his reflection, she thought. She wondered what the kral would think of 
chimpanzees. The thought kept her mind off of the syringe about to take her 
blood. So far, the doctor had said nothing about her physiology. Maybe she 
wouldnÕt. Maybe the lack of familiarity with non-Minbari physiology would be 
enough. She had nothing to compare Havah to. 

"Miss Lassee, the scanner showed scar tissue in the upper lobe of the left 
lung, old burns, and some old fractures, some of the ribs. How long ago?"

"About eleven years." The War. Her lips made a grim line.

The doctor sensed HavahÕs change in mood, and understood the reason, and 
asked no further questions on the matter. After a few more tests for vision and 
reflexes, the doctor concluded the exam. "You may sit up, Miss Lassee. See, 
that was not so bad, was it?" 

What is it about doctors that they all have to say that?  Is it in some annoying 
universal handbook or something? She thanked the doctor for her patience 
and went to leave, but Kral Situr interjected.

"It is raining, Miss Lassee, and it will be a few moments before your escort 
arrives. Perhaps you would like to wait indoors? I promise that I will not bite." 
She grinned.

Havah deferred. "Oh, no, I know. I just like the rain." 


She was squishing around in the grass verge when Rathenn pulled up in a 
glider, peering at her peculiar behavior. "Are you alright? It is very wet. Were you 
not able to wait inside?"

"IÕmÉIÕm fine, I just like the rain. I havenÕt seen it for a while."

He smiled. "Ah, yes, I understand. I suppose that we see it so much here that 
while we appreciate it for the green growth, we stop noticing its beauty and 
pleasure, and instead become annoyed at the need to change our garments. 
WellÉif you should desire itÉ" He pulled a rain blanket out from under his as 
she climbed in.

"Thank you, but my raincoat keeps me pretty dry." The city was beautiful in the 
rain. Grey and misty with claret drops ringing soft sighs as they hit crystal. The 
fresh air wafted through the windows of the flyer. 

"Tomorrow, at 0900 hours then, I will send someone. We are very happy to 
have you here, Miss Lassee."

"Thank you, Satai Rathenn."

He left her at the door of her compound.

* * * * * * * * 
 
Kral Situr had learned from long years of practicing medicine that some 
questions could not be answered by asking the patient, especially one as 
closed as Havah Lassee. Asking too many probing questions would merely get 
her shut out of any confidence at all. Some of the reluctance came from the war. 
But the woman was hiding something else, something that tortured her. Situr 
knew this because she was mildly telepathic, as were all healers. She could 
not sense exact thoughts, only impressions. This talent aided in diagnosis, 
especially when the patient was unable to articulate what was wrong. So 
healers were interned to the TelepathÕs Guild for a period of two years to further 
develop their skill. Not for the last time, Situr wished her gift had been stronger, 
as she prepared more tests on her samples. After a very short while, she knew 
what troubled the woman. This woman was half-Minbari. There was no 
question of it. Aside from the rumors she had heard of Satai DelennÕs 
transformation, this was unheard of. No wonder Miss Lassee had been 
nervous. Situr had not even known until recently that this was possible without 
gene splicing, and this was forbidden, at least between races, and with 
sentient beings. It was considered unnatural, something only blood-thirsty 
people like the Dilgar did. It was not considered within the realm of healing, 
and provided no known benefit. The only exception was the exploration of 
organic technology, and of course DelennÕs change. But many had not 
accepted this, and were looking askance at Delenn for this reason. It was only 
Satai DelennÕs charisma and the respect they already had for her that kept 
many from speaking against her, openly. Situr and her colleague, and a couple 
other scientists among the Warrior Caste had spent the last couple of years 
trying to gather information on other racesÕ biologies. Her, for a broader 
perspective, and the Warrior caste scientists, who knew or wanted to ask why. 
But she was now considered one of the leading authorities in xenobiology, 
although her knowledge was still very superficial.  It was theoretically possible, 
she supposed, to produce a half-breed. Of the races she had seen so far, all of 
them had the same number of chromosomes, and the same sex 
chromosomes, XX or XY. Odd, how they had all evolved that way, from such 
disparate beginnings. The Narn had predecessors that were amphibious, the 
Drazi, reptilian, and yet they all seemed to end up with genetics that while not 
compatible, seemed similar in many ways nonetheless, out of the billions and 
billions of possible combinations of DNA. Situr isolated a chromosome from 
one of HavahÕs cells and spent the next few hours mapping it, gene by gene. 
And there it was. She had no bone because she was lacking the gene for bone 
patterning. Not that the gene for a head bone wasnÕt there at all, but it couldnÕt 
be fully expressed without the pattern from the mother. That gene was linked to 
the X chromosome, and since HavahÕs mother had not possessed it, as a 
Human, neither did Havah. 

That meant that her Minbari DNA could only have come from a male. Her blood 
type was R-negative, common among the Warrior Caste, less so among the 
Religious Caste, and almost nonexistent among the Worker Caste. Interesting. 
Situr needed a Human perspective. On a secure link, she managed with some 
difficulty to locate Dr. Stephen Franklin. He had seen Havah before, and she 
needed the file, since it had not arrived yet. 

The dark Human smiled amiably at her. "Hello Kral Situr, can I help you? IÕll 
have that file for you soon, we just came down from a surge in patients. 
Stomach virus."

"Thank you Dr. Franklin, actually I had some questions. I know that you saw 
Delenn. And I know that you saw Havah Lassee. And I also know that Humans 
have done some research, or at least have some knowledge of gene splicing 
and cloning and such things. I mean no disrespect, but since this is not a part 
of our study or culture, I am lacking in some theory as to how to explain what I 
am seeing here, and I was hoping that you could help me. How would it be 
possible for two incompatible full-bloods to produce viable offspring?"

"IÕve been asking myself that. We havenÕt exactly figured any of that out yet. One 
possibility would be a virus."

"A virus?! How?"

"Well, like a retro-virus. In the past, we combated an illness called AIDS. It was 
caused by a retrovirus that destroyed immune cells. And after years of study we 
found that it functioned by inserting itself into the DNA of the cell and producing 
itÕs own RNA or getting the cell to produce the viral RNA. Well, see, using this 
process, it can alter the functioning of the cell. So theoretically, you could get a 
retrovirus like that, which alters reproductive cells instead of immune cells, and 
leaves them merely restructured instead of destroying them, and temporarily 
makes two cells previously incompatible, artificially restructured. There are a lot 
of problems with that theory though. Direct manipulation and construction of the 
DNA mechanically might be another way, with nanotechnology. But again, we 
donÕt know of anyone with this technology that has been able to make it work on 
this level. With Ambassador Delenn, that was done with the use of altered stem 
cells. To be honest, IÕve never seen anything like it before. If you have any 
insight into that, I would love to get that information."

"No, we do notÉunfortunately. Can you send me any information you have on 
these theories?"

"Of course. IÕll look them up and send them tonight. And IÕll send my preliminary 
report on DelennÕs alteration. Is that all? How is Havah, is she alright? Have 
you seen Ambassador Sinclair? We havenÕt heard from him."

"Yes, she is well, and the Ambassador is adjusting well also. Can such a virus 
exist naturally? Or is such a thing constructed as well?"

"We donÕt know. No one has ever encountered such a virus in the wild. So far, it 
is purely theoretical."

"I see. Thank you very much for your help. I apologize for the brevity of the call, 
but I must attend to a couple of things."

"I understand. Nice talking to you, Doctor. IÕll send the files as soon as I can."

"Thank you, Dr. Franklin."


She contacted Satai Rathenn. He showed up a half an hour later, and viewed 
the results of the genetic analysis, while she explained the implications to him. 

"So it is unlikely that this could have happened by chance?"

"That is correct. Although it is unlikely to have been with the consent of this 
male. Most Minbari would not consent to such a union, and the most likely 
scenario that I can envision, is that this was conducted by someone with 
genetic engineering capabilities that we have never seen. Nor have the 
Humans. I consulted with Dr. Franklin of Babylon 5. He is well-known for 
xenobiology on his world. Of course, this is all speculation. I have no other 
evidence, since we cannot even determine how this could have occurred to 
begin with."

"What about Delenn?"

"He had little insight on her transformation, although he is sending what he has 
discovered. It would appear that the Vorlon is the only one who does."

"So, HavahÕs father is likely to be Warrior Caste, possibly religious, but this is 
less likely, not just because of the blood-type, but because until recently, we did 
not travel off-world as often? Unless you think there is a possibility that this 
could have happened here."

"I do not see how."

"I will notify one of the Warrior Caste members of the Council and he can begin 
conducting a search of old military records, to look for any reports of capture 
and release or escape, encounter with unknown races, unexplained absences. 
When was Havah born?"

The kral showed him the birthdate on her file.

"It is a start. In the meantime, say nothing of this. Since we do not know his 
identity, or anything about the circumstances, this is best kept quiet for now. 
Until we know more, this discovery may reflect poorly on Havah, if people are to 
misinterpret the situation, and there is no point in risking shame to anyone."

"I understand, Satai Rathenn."

Secrets are the trade of the Grey Council, he thought ruefully.

* * * * * * * * 

The next day, a young man came at 0900 hours, as Rathenn had instructed 
him. He looked to be in his late teens, and very serious about the task he had 
been assigned. He bowed graciously when Havah gestured him in. She was 
just as anxious as he to get started. They began with the primary Religious 
Caste dialect of the north west, the one spoken most in Yedor, called Dushali. 
Rathenn was right. It was extremely sticky to learn. It was all nuance. The same 
word could mean something completely different depending on the time of day, 
the station and caste of the person spoken to, the words before and after it. 
There appeared to be so many grammatical rules as to have no pattern at all, 
everything according to circumstance. But it made for an extremely versatile 
language, capable of expressing the most minute thought or capturing the 
slightest details. After an hour and a half, her brain was ready to leak out of her 
ears. And she had thought that calculus had been complicated! Rathenn 
appeared at the door, ready to take her to meet her new hosts. Her tutor 
mercifully bowed and left. And Rathenn whisked her away in the flier. She 
squinted into the sunlight glinting from the crystal towers. They parked in front 
of a small flat with a little arbor shading the yard. A slender woman with a 
gracefully ribbed headbone came out of the door and met Rathenn with a 
familiar greeting, placing her hand to his chest. He returned the greeting, and 
then introduced Havah. "Katani, this is Havah Lassee, the Human we spoke 
of." He turned to Havah. "We spoke of your assignment here, and the need for 
it." 

Before Rathenn could introduce the woman, she introduced herself. "I am 
Katani, of the family of Zhorat and we are thrilled to have you join us! Rathenn is 
understating the matter. We have been far too sheltered here, from Ōoutside 
influence.Õ IÕm bored, by the gods! And I want to know more about the universe! 
In ValenÕs name, weÕre not children who have to be protected from naughty 
words!" She cuffed Rathenn on the arm, "As this statesman might have you 
believe!"

Rathenn grinned. It was obvious that they were old friends. But even had they 
not been, Havah doubted that station would have stopped this woman from 
speaking as she did. Havah was instantly fond of her.

A second later, her and Rathenn were ushered inside. "Please come in. I have 
kocha ready." 

Rathenn clarified the word. "The midday meal."

"Ah yes, I apologize. I know English quite well, but forgive me if I slip. This is my 
husband, Sorail." An equally slender man looked up from a side table where he 
was perusing a scroll. "Sorail, take your nose out of that scroll. It wonÕt crawl 
away. You can fix it later! Our guest is here, andÉlunchÉis served!" She turned 
to Havah. "You will have to forgive him, as well. He isÉI heard a lovely Human 
word to describe itÉa workaholic! He transcribes proceedings, at the Temple, 
among other things, and heÕs been fussing over this one all morning!"

Sorail looked properly rebuked as he slid scroll and data crystal into a drawer 
and bowed to Havah, smiling. A toddler hovered near the edge of the door. 
Katani swooped over and picked the child up and brought her over. "This is 
Nohri. Nohri, say hello." The little girl buried her face in her motherÕs neck. "Oh, 
you have never been shy before, you are not fooling me!" She kissed the girl on 
the forehead. "We regret that you will not meet our son at this time. He is away 
training in the Temple. It was not possible to take him away from studies. 
Please sit, everyone, that is what the chairs are for! You do not need to stand 
like stiff planks!"

Havah sat obediently as Katani helped little Nohri into her seat, and then lit 
candles placed around the table. Havah watched Rathenn for the proper 
behavior. But Katani explained. "It is customary, especially with an honored 
guest, to meditate before beginning the meal. Sometimes we also meditate 
before each bite, but since it is really your first day among the Minbari, I did not 
wish to frighten you away just yet!" She smiled at Havah. "Especially after 
surviving your first Minbari language lesson!ÉI will of course expect you to be 
able to name all of the foods and items in the room by the end of the mealÉ" At 
HavahÕs shocked face, she gave Havah another teasing grin, and began 
silently meditating. Havah bowed her head and tried to quiet her racing mind. 
Wow. After the meditation, they began to eat. For all her joking, Katani was quite 
genteel, taking small neat bites. The food was simple but delicious, some kind 
of soft cheese in a pastry-like dough, and slivers of sweet pungent fruit. 

Sorail asked politely. "Miss Lassee, how was your flight in yesterday? 
Uneventful, I hope?"

Havah grinned uncomfortably, remembering her encounter with the soldiers, 
but not wanting to be rude. 

Rathenn spoke up for her. "It appears that a couple of the security guards saw 
her as a threat and restrained her. Again, I apologize for that, Miss Lassee."

Sorail shook his head, but said nothing further. Katani clucked. "I understand 
the need for increased security with off-worlders coming now, but honestly, 
those men would think that Nohri was a threat!"

Speaking of Nohri, Katani glanced over at her daughter, to find her staring at 
Havah with her tiny finger up her nose. "Nohri! Stop that immediately! What have 
you been told! Not only is it unclean, but it is disrespectful! Stop it!" Katani 
looked at Havah with chagrin and pulled the babyÕs hand down, wiping her 
finger with antimicrobial gel. "I apologize Miss LasseeŃ"

Havah burst out laughing. "No, itÕs just fine. ThatÕs what kids do, all over the 
galaxy, it seems! No, everything is just wonderful. Especially the food and 
company!" Boy, was it nice to see that even Minbari kids werenÕt perfectly well-
behaved little replicas of their parents! And the little girl was just ridiculously 
cute. I guess thatÕs what keeps parents from choking them when they have 
temper-tantrums, Havah thought amusingly, as Nohri pouted, and looked like 
she was fixing to give her parents a good episode. But her parents ignored it, 
and the storm clouds on her face passed away. After a few minutes she was 
happily giggling and sneaking food to the small furry animal that had crept in 
under the table. Sorail noticed the new inhabitant and picked it up and 
deposited it outside the door. The pout came back, and she said something in 
Minbari, but Sorail said. "Gokhs belong outdoors." Havah looked puzzled so 
Sorail explained. "Gokhs are semi-wild animals. They are very mischievious. 
But children love them, so often they are found lurking around homes. Some 
families keep them. Often they come and go. This one has been hanging 
around the house for five years. Last winter it used the arbor to sharpen its 
claws, and a few weeks ago it tried to climb the hangings and pulled them all 
down on its head. But Nohri has become very attached to it. We tell her that she 
can play with it outside, but it keeps coming in because it knows she will feed 
it."

"Oh, sort of like a cat or dog." 

"These are Earth animals?"

"Yeah, also very mischievious, and as soon as you feed them theyÕll always be 
around."

"Yes, I believe that I have read a little about them. I have been trying to learn 
more about Earth."

Following the meal, HavahÕs accommodations were discussed. Since she had 
elected to take Katani and Sorail up on their offer to live there for a while, her 
belongings would be brought to their home, and the study supplies delivered 
there. Rathenn said goodbye and left to attend to business. Katani showed her 
around the rest of the house and to the quest room, which was similar to that of 
HavahÕs flat, but smaller. The back of the house opened out onto a small 
communal courtyard shaded by another arbor, with a burbling fountain that a 
few children were playing around, chasing the gokh out of the water. Sorail 
returned to his scroll, despite the glare of his wife, and Katani left Nohri under 
SorailÕs eye, and took Havah into the city.

The city was huge. It seemed comparable in population to New York, and like 
New Yorkers or the inhabitants of any large capital city, the people Havah saw 
seemed friendly but preoccupied. Also like New York, the city seemed to be 
built up and down rather than out. But here the similarity ended. Crystal and 
agate spires towered above her, and the businesses and domiciles delved 
deep into the ground. There had been a natural network of caves that the 
Minbari had restructured and strengthened. The towers had been built of the 
rock deposits of the surrounding hillside, like a whittler carving a piece of wood 
into the shape trapped inside. This peak had a city inside. Much of the power 
came from geothermal energy tapped from a rill beneath the city. And natural 
fountains bubbled up from heated springs in the heart of the mountain. It was 
beautiful, and structurally ingenious. Since the city was so compact, it was 
possible, if one wished, to walk everywhere, and many people did. There was a 
magnetic tram that accessed almost every location for those with difficulty 
walking, and it ran constantly, automatically timed. Most flyers were used by 
visitors or commuters, unless there was inclement weather. On sunny 
temperate days, the streets were packed with pedestrians. The flyers appeared 
similar to those on Earth, powered by some form of hydrogen fuel cell. HavahÕs 
jaw hung open as she gazed. Katani took her wrist and led her down a main 
avenue. They passed a food court area. The smell from one of the gazebos 
was overwhelming. As they passed, Havah could see some sort of bun coming 
out of the large brick oven. HavahÕs stomach growled. How could she be 
hungry again? They had eaten recently. Maybe Minbari food is like Chinese 
food, you stuff your face but are hungry again in a couple hours, Havah thought. 

Katani noticed HavahÕs curiosity and before Havah could stop her, had gone 
and bought a couple of the buns, one filled with a bland cream for Havah, and a 
plain one for herself. Havah began to tell her that she didnÕt have to go to the 
trouble, but she waved HavahÕs protest away. "I have not had one in a while. 
These are called praÕdo. They are traditional cakes. We eat them with sweet 
cream, plain, sometimes they are stuffed with meat or vegetables. They are 
very heavy and store very well for travel, so merchants love them. But if we eat 
too many of them we get very large."  They approached a gorgeous crystal 
structure, the Temple. Katani led her inside. There were meditation rooms 
everywhere, and other rooms that looked like libraries with books and scrolls 
stored in long thin waterproof shafts. Other rooms looked like meeting rooms. 
The main hallways were vaulted with the smaller rooms having stepped 
ceilings. There was no main shrine indoors. Interesting. Katani explained why. 
"The entire city should be able to see the rituals, if they wish, and not everyone 
can fit into the Temple. Instead there are many areas dedicated to the gods, 
where people can leave individual offerings. But the communal rituals must 
happen outside in front, so that the entire city can witness them. That is why the 
platform faces the avenue." 

Havah looked at it in awe. It was made of faceted crystal, but very simple. 

"At the right time of day, when the rituals are performed, the sun casts light on 
the people performing the rituals, and back up to the Universe. People can 
place their candles at intervals around the edges of the platform. This is done, 
often, by the persons for whom the ritual is being performed, such as a 
wedding or betrothal. At other general holidays, we all put our candles there, at 
least as many as will fit without intruding into the area designated to receive the 
offerings."

"What do you offer?"

"Fruits and vegetables, oils."

"SoÉSatai Delenn explained a little to me about your religionÉyou have 
godsÉ"

"Yes, there is the Universe. We are all part of this Universe, and the One that 
created it. It is us. But we have gods, in the sense that you mean it, because 
everything in the Universe has a specific purpose, see? They are their 
functions."

They walked to a park nearby and sat near a stream under a willow-like tree. 
Havah tried to clarify. "We have beings called angels, in my religion. They sort of 
have names that we call them, but the names are really offices, or job 
functions. So ŌHa-ShatanÕ means Ōthe adversaryÕ, or ŌUri-elÕ means ŌFire of 
GodÕ. The angel Uriel guards places with a sword made of fire, sort of enforces 
GodÕs law, or gives warnings, Ha-Shatan tests humanity in the eyes of God. 
You mean they have names like that, that describe what they each do?"

"Yes. Although it is not as fixed as that. Since they are also spirit and energy, as 
are we, they are equally capable of transmutation and change. They can do one 
function one day, or something else another, so that the energy is called by the 
function it performs, as it performs, until it changes. Do you understand?"

"Sort of."

"Suppose that a man is a warrior, but decides that his soul is no longer in war, 
and he decides to become a priest. Then we call him a priest."

"Some people would argue that you can never leave what you were or what you 
did behind you, that you are always what you were. I meanÉnot to be impolite, 
but doesnÕt your caste system argue against such a principle of change?"

"Yes, it does. And it is true, some people would say thatÉbut I think they are 
wrong. If we do not expect our gods to stay the same stagnant energy forever, 
why should we expect that of ourselves. But then they would argue that we do 
change when we pass beyond the veil and our next life brings us any change 
we desire. They say that the gods change before us because they do not see 
the darkness separating their lives into segments, as we do. But I do not see 
why we have to wait for the darkness. I think that the people that say this have 
chosen continuity within one lifetime, and are afraid of disruption. I also think 
that you can keep who or what you are with you, and become something else, 
in addition. If you know how to sing, do you have to stop singing because 
someone teaches you how to write?"

Havah smiled at Katani. So not all Minbari agree with the caste system. "Good 
point. Maybe youÕre right. That is certainly what our culture has opted for with the 
creation of our type of democracy. It is a concept we called Ōself-determinationÕ, 
it goes along with Ōfree enterpriseÕ, and a few other concepts. You might be 
interested to read about the history of the old America."

"You can teach me! Come, it is time to head back."  Havah was deep in thought 
on the trip back. They stopped at an open air market and picked up vegetables. 
Katani and Sorail could afford to have much food delivered, but Katani often 
liked to pick things out for herself. After returning, Havah helped Katani prepare 
dinner, with Nohri helping to shell little nuts. Dinner was pleasant. Nohri 
appeared to have gotten over some of her shyness, because she was talking 
constantly in Minbari. Havah didnÕt know if she understood or knew how to 
speak English. Even though Havah did not yet understand much Minbari, one 
sequence between her and Sorail sounded suspiciously like a barrage of 
three-year old ŌWhyÕs.   

That night, hoping it wouldnÕt offend her generous hosts, she unrolled her 
sleeping bag and slept beside the bed, listening to the tinkling of the fountains. 
Maybe the sight of little Nohri had triggered something in her mind, because 
the dream that night was full of Kuraal.

A crash issued from her husbandÕs meditation room, and she rushed in to find 
little Kuraal standing wide-eyed and shaky, swimming in her fatherÕs armored 
coat, near a broken pitcher of water with her fatherÕs shurok in her hands. Her 
breath was coming in startled heaves. Turanni rushed over and snatched the 
heavy dagger from the childÕs hand, drawing a relieved breath that nothing 
worse had happened, and made an angry mental note to tell her husband to 
keep it where Kuraal couldnÕt find it. Their daughter had wandered into the 
meditation room, found the armor and in doing so, found a new toy.  "No Kuraal! 
That is very dangerous, little one. You must be grown to wield it! Do not be in 
such a hurry!" Trembling herself, she fetched a vacuum hose and began 
cleaning up the mess. After the shards were gone, she handed Kuraal a cloth 
and helped her clean up the water. "Here, take off your fatherÕs coat, itÕs getting 
wet." As if on cue, Trelann came in, to the sight of Kuraal dragging the length of 
his coat through an enormous puddle, towel dangling forgotten, while her 
mother tried to get her untangled. He chuckled, "WhatÕs this? Have the two of 
you decided that my uniform needs washing? There are easier ways." This got 
him a baleful glare from Turanni, who threw the wet towel at him. It whudded 
against his tunic, leaving a damp impression. 

"Yes, genius, that is exactly what we were doing! Your daughter has discovered 
your shurok and decided that our household dishware would be a good first 
practice target! And how do you suppose she came by the weapon, my 
husband? Because you left it in your coat, where she could get her curious 
three-summers old hands on it, thatÕs how!" 

A deep frown passed his brow, but then instead of looking properly abashed as 
he should have, he whooshed Kuraal up into the air and caught her, wringing a 
cackle from her. "Eager to begin already?" He gazed at Turanni, beaming with 
pride. 

She just stood with her hands on her hips, glowering. "And if she had cut off her 
lovely nose, Proud Warrior? What then?" His grin dropped into the humbled 
look she was hoping for. 

Already, Kuraal resembled him. The girl murmured happily to herself. The two 
of them made such a picture that TuranniÕs sternness melted and she 
embraced both of them, draping the wet towel over his head. He whipped it 
around and snapped it at her backside, setting Kuraal down to run around. 
Then his face darkened. 

"WhatÕs wrong, husband?" She asked, worried at the change.

"We are home for a couple days only, to rebuild the ship. I had hoped that 
coming here would replenish my spirit. But I am more depressed than before. 
We are losing this War. You saw those ships, the vast blackness. They melt into 
space and then reappear. They have already nearly destroyed many outer 
bases, and we are too divided to stand against them for much longer. I am tired 
of losing friends. And I am afraid of losing you too."

She put her arms around his waist and looked up into his deep brown eyes, 
knowing how hard it was for him to say such a thing. What was there to say to 
that though? So many fleet ships had been destroyed, so many soldiers had 
died, and many had returned home with missing parts, burned, half-dead. 
Some of those that died had been fortunate. And the war was getting worse. He 
was right. They were losing. The Shadows were slicing the Minbari Federation 
away, chunk by chunk. She could not promise him that she would survive this, 
that any of them would. She kissed him long and deep. "I love you," was all she 
could say. He held her tightly.

The image faded and was replaced by the vision of Kuraal in the cave, 
surrounded by Shadows, full of dread at what Turanni knew was inevitable. 
Havah woke, choking on tears, whispering the little girlÕs name. She covered 
her face with the blanket and sobbed, trying to expel the sorrow in every breath, 
to loosen the knot in her chest. She felt a little tug on her sleeve, and peered to 
the side, trying to wipe her face. It was Nohri. Wordless, the little girl slid into the 
sleeping bag beside Havah, wrapping her short arms around HavahÕs middle, 
laying her cheek against her. It was what NohriÕs parents did when Nohri was 
sad or frightened, and Miss Havah was both. "Hey," Havah said, fighting to 
normalize her trembling voice and sound adult, "Hey, arenÕt you supposed to be 
in bed?" She looked down at the toddlerÕs new little headbone. Nohri turned her 
head up, blinking at Havah with big hazel eyes, and just hugged her harder. 
Havah hugged her back. She told Nohri to go to sleep. When Havah laid back 
down, the girl nestled into her side, with her arm flung over HavahÕs waist. She 
held Nohri until they both fell asleep.

Katani slept the sleep of hunters, warriors, and mothers: lightly. She awoke to a 
faint sound and rose. The sound sharpened as she neared HavahÕs room. The 
woman was speaking Minbari, in mournful tones. Odd, she spoke it so well. In 
ValenÕs nameÉhow can she know that dialect?! It is no longer spoken. I think 
there is something that Rathenn has not told me of this woman. Katani listened 
intently to HavahÕs dirge. Her child was lost. She whispered the childÕs name. 
Katani froze. Had she heard that name correctly? She could hear Havah crying. 
Katani was torn. Ever the mother, she very much wanted to go to Havah and talk 
to her, say something that would make her feel better. But this woman had 
been a soldier. She knew HavahÕs history, everyone did. Soldiers were very 
proud, and she did not wish to do anything to make Havah feel uncomfortable 
or ashamed. That would only make her feel worse. And also, whatever Havah 
knew of the Minbari, Havah was Human. Katani knew so little about them still. 
What if it was rude to intrude upon such a moment? She could see the 
womanÕs shape now, and also saw that Nohri was standing at the edge of 
HavahÕs blanket, looking at her. That child! Nohri crawled into bed with the 
grieving woman, and Katani was about to stop Nohri and take her back to her 
own bed, explaining why it was impolite to intrude like that, when SorailÕs voice 
came from behind her. "Let them be." He had risen to see why Katani had 
gotten out of bed. He looked at Nohri and Havah. "ItÕs alright. Let the child be. 
ThereÕs no harm in it." They looked at the two for a few moments and then 
returned to bed.

23