We debate some key questions about Babylon 5 in this episode: Is Delenn a Minbari or a stalker? How do the shadows regroup? Did Franklin’s walkabout accomplish anything? What the heck is Marcus thinking? And, most importantly, what should this episode have been called?
The relationship between Sheridan and Delenn goes to the next level. Char’s thrilled, but Patrick’s questioning their motivation — bloodlust? Also, we discuss the role of religious leaders step up in a time of crisis, the reputation of the Babylon 5 crew on Earth, Londo’s manipulation, and a potential theme song for the White Star fleet.
Our hosts don’t agree on much in this episode. Patrick’s true feelings for Marcus come out, much to Char’s dismay. Delenn’s ascension to Ranger One prompts some disagreement, as well. And the inevitability of a Sheridan/Delenn relationship splits our hosts’ hearts. But we agree: Grey Sector cults are lame.
An introspective but distracted Franklin hits Down Below for his walkabout and immediately falls in love. Lyta Alexander makes a triumphant return, but why so late? And Kosh 2.0, the Narn and Garibaldi have their moments on Babylon 5 to shine — or scare.
Finally, Babylon 5 delivers some closure, as Sinclair’s destiny is finally fulfilled. At the same time, questions arise as Sheridan and Delenn face an awkward Zocalo conversation, G’Kar and Londo prepare for a fused future and our hosts debate the merits of rewatching a series.
We’re working in several different timelines in this episode, and it can get confusing fast. But among the highlights? We see Minbar and Centauri Prime. We see Sinclair. And we see Patrick finally begin to understand the commitment of the fandom that drives Babylon 5.
This is not the episode for the harm avoidant among us. Sheridan confronts Kosh, Londo confronts Morden, Garibaldi confronts Franklin… and by the end of it all, an ambassador and an ambassador’s love are both dead. The stakes continue to rise, and some on the station understand that better than others.
Telepaths are going to have a say in how the Shadow War is fought, and that means Bester (ugh) is back. Somehow, some way, Bester’s extramarital affairs saved the day for Babylon 5 this time. So did the Book of G’Quan, thanks to G’Kar’s growth, Delenn’s honesty and Garibaldi’s patience.
When do you let someone live in their own delusions? Fever dreams, time travel, cryogenic freezing and — tied up in all of that — mental illness make their appearance on Babylon 5. Through the eyes of “King Arthur,” Marcus and G’Kar, we explore all of this in an episode that touches on the unfairness of life.
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