Disclaimer: I only wish I were brilliant enough to produce such a magnificent piece of work as this, but it isn't mine unfortunately. All characters belong to Mr. Straczynski. Only the concept of this vignette is mine.
Personal Notes: I just finished watching the episode titled "The Long, Twilight Struggle" and I couldn't help but notice some rather poignant things about Londo. As such, this whole vignette is written from his perspective, as once more my fascination for "villains" (or fallen heroes) spills out. Oh, I must add a huge thank you to Hobsonphile for being my beta. Your assistance is much appreciated. :)
Empty Places
by Blood Raven
Victory. Destiny. There was a time when I dedicated my entire life to fulfilling these two little words. But now I do not know if this is truly what I desired. The Humans have a saying to which I believe this most aptly applies: "Be careful what you wish for. You just might get it."
I sought only the glory of my people, my one true love; Centauri Prime. I wanted things to return as they were back in the days of glory and victory, when our empire walked among the stars as though we were gods ourselves.
Whatever came of that I do not know, but as with everything, it too faded and over time we became nothing more then a mere unpleasant joke. So when they came to me asking me what it was that I wanted, the only thing I could wish was for the ascension of our star. If only I knew then what I know now.
The tide is turning. I should be pleased by these recent victories won by my people, but I am not. For I know the truth. We never earned this glory, this power; at least, not honestly. Yes, we are no longer seen as a joke, but we are still not respected. Instead, we are feared. While fear can bear much power, it will serve us little in the future ahead should our dark allies turn on us or us on them. I can't help but wonder sometimes if in reality this is what I truly wanted.
As I stare out the window of my ship, watching, staring into the darkness, this is all that consumes my thoughts. Far below, I gaze at the homeworld of my people's enemy. They are being ravaged beyond any comprehension as our military ships destroy what is left of their planet with mass drivers.
I should be pleased. After all, it is one less annoyance to deal with. Honestly, however, all I feel is emptiness and, dare I admit it even to myself, sadness. This is not a victory, not by a long shot. We've cheated our way to the top, making all of this meaningless.
As the asteroids slam into the rustic red surface, I can feel my hearts struggling to keep beating. The many explosions mark the deaths of so many that I am sure no one will ever be able to keep proper count. It is always unsettling to hear of a civilization dying, no matter who they are, but to witness it first hand is something far more horrific then one can properly explain.
I knew they wouldn't stand a chance against us, certainly not with my associates involved. While they may be only Narn, I am disappointed, perhaps even pained, by this. I think I now finally understand what it must have been like for the Minbari when they entered the Battle of the Line. The Humans didn't stand a chance and both sides knew it, just as it is right now with the Narn and my people.
The situation has gotten out of control. The war machine has gained of a life of its own and truth be known, I think I am frightened by that fact. I am helpless to do anything. And yet even if I wasn't, I must admit I would probably still do nothing...
