Part 13

Crais had come up at post haste after he'd got an urgent message from the town warden.

An old veteran SEAL commander, Hennessy, had heard of the problem and joined him. The Peacekeeper felt glad of some moral support. He flexed his fingers.

"I'll be glad when the council sort out their police force. There's really no place for a military force in a civillian problem."

Hennessy snorted.

"Don't believe it! The minute they have a big mess they can't deal with they'll send for us. Such as this. I gather we have a hostage situation."

Crais nodded.

"Friends of mine."

The older man shook his grizzled head.

"Not good. Can you stay objective?"

"It has never been a problem before."

"You may have to make some distasteful choices."

"I can do it!"

"What do we know?"

"Two renegades armed with magnatorks."

"I presume they're lethal."

"Extemely."

"What's their state of mind?"

"I don't think anyone stopped to ask them. From reports panicky."

"It's not gonna be easy. Are they in the back of the building?"

"I think so. They use the back room to play poker. I can't see the gunmen so I think we can presume they're there too."

A couple of big men and one much smaller strode upto Hennessy.

"Trouble Boss?

"Some of my old group. Kosky, think your hearing's still acute?"

The small man grinned, a gap toothed grin.

"As ever. What do you want me to do?"

"Oh just mosey on round the back and see what you make of things."

"Will do."

He slipped down on his belly and crawled away to the rear of the building. Crias fidgeted with his tunic fastens.

"What do we do now?"

"Oh have a cup of coffee. Nothing to be done until he comes back."

**********************************************

Things inside were fraught. Everytime one of the hostages shifted position or cleared their throats, the gunmen who said they were from Ploth, became distinctly twitchy. Rygel decided to try diplomacy.

"Er what exactly do you want? Maybe we can help"

"Want? WANT? What the frell would we want flenik face? Money, Transport and safe passage."

The Hynearean snorted.

"Safe passage? Where to? Where's safe these days?"

"You can use that wormhole of yours to take us anywhere we want to go."

Chiana burst out laughing.

"I think we should help them with this Dominar."

"Mmm, yes it would solve the problem wouldn't it."

The ugliest of the two, who seemed to be the leader poked his gun in her face.

"What's so funny about that idea!"

"You pop out from the wormhole anywhere and you'll find a Scarran welcoming committee."

There was silence from the Plothians.

"A word in your ear brother."

D'Argo tried to listen to what they were saying but the translator microbes couldn't cope. The two were having a heated exchange in their gutteral tongue. Finally they broke it up and the leader waved his gun at Chiana.

"Stulk wants you."

She tossed her head.

"No way. You both smell."

He leered at her.

"You'll be too busy to notice."

He looked at Bill who was seething quietly and almost losing control.

"She's your fark is she? I wondered who'd want a Nebari whore. You Humans have no taste."

He took hold of her arm and threw her at his brother. She missed him and hit the wall hard and collapsed into a heap at the bottom. Oblivious of his own safety, bill dive over and knelt beside her. She opened one eye and looked down at her top. Bill could see that she was wearing her comm unit.

"Need to lay her on that table over there. She might have concussion."

The leader gestured with his gun that he do that and Bill gently picked her up and laid her on the table, switching on the comm unit as he did.

***********************

Outside waiting for the return of Kosky, Crais and Hennessy suddenly heard the sound of Rygel's voice emenating from the unit on the peacekeeper captain's lapel. He motioned that the people round be silent as the comms were open units.

"Well that didn't get you very far did it?"

"Shut up! When we want your opinion we'll give it to you."

Rygel snuffled and muttered, "Charming!"

Kosky arrive back and signalled that the hostages were all against the back wall. Crais gave the comm unit to the small commando and motioned Hennessy to move back out of sound range.

"Suggestions?"

Hennessy shrugged.

"If there had been a window, a stun or smoke grenade. As there isn't, it creates a problem. They'd surely hear if we tried to drill through, even with the most modern equipment. And of course we don't have any of that anyway."
Crais fingered his beard.

"I gather you would use the element of surprise. Isn't that risky?"

"Said you'd probably have to make an unpleasant decision. As things stand they're likely to kill all the hostages and then turn their weapons on us and themselves."

"You think so."

"That's what's happened in similar situations. At least by trying to surprise them some of your friends will probably survive."

"Not much of a choice. None or some. I was taught strive for the all solution."

Hennessy chuckled.

"I'll bet you seldom achieved it."

As most of the situations that had demanded the 'all' solution were concerned with wiping out pockets of anti Peacekeeper resistance, Crais decided to remain silent. He ran a hand across his forehead.

"How would a big hole in the side wall do?"

"Explosives?"

Crais shook his head. He motioned two troopers, "Is it set up?"

They nodded and a sled containing a pulsar cannon slid into view.

"How big a hole will you require?"

"Oo about four feet round should do nicely."

"Get your team behind the the cannon, ready to move in."

*************************

Inside the atmosphere was getting decidely sticky. Rygel was nervous and had farted large amount of helium. The gunmen were annoyed when their voices rose in pitch.

"What the frell's happening."

D'Argo supllied the answer.

"The Dominar's nervous."

"Huh. Much more of that and he'll never be nervous again."

There was and almighty flash and half the side wall caved in. They were thrown down by the blast. One of the gunmen was killed instantly and was laid on the floor at a grotesque angle. Hennessy's men swarmed in and took the hostages out side . Chiana was coughing as she'd got a face full of dust when the wall caved in.

Crais hurried over.

"Everyone uninjured."

Rygel dusted down his robe.

"You took your time. We could all have been roasted."

Hennessy magicked a clothes brush from somewhere and Rygel took it gratefully. D'Argo had a cut from a piece of flying debris. Chiana flew over to where the first aider was seeing to it.

"No fuss Chiana, it's running clear."

"Whew that's a relief."

The old commander took Crais to one side.

"You were planning that all along weren't you?"

"It had crossed my mind."

"We were bloody lucky you know. It could have gone dreadfully wrong"

Crais watched a dog scratching in the street.

"But it didn't did it?"

************************************

Scorpius woke to the sound of gentle breathing in his face. He lifted his head and came face to face with Daisy.

"You don't get fed until later."

The sun was quite high in the sky and the scientist decided to make a quick breakfast. Retrieving the small camping stove, he cooked some bacon and then put on the water for his tea. He'd found that he was extremely fond of bacon. A new taste but an extremely enjoyable one. He'd brought herb tea in preference to the ever present coffee. Bodily replenished, he caught up his horse and quickly brushed the burrs and grass seeds out of her coat before saddling her. She burrowed a velvet muzzle in his hand.

"You can try all you want young lady. I have no treats for you."

He'd foolishly given her a couple of peppermints the previous evening. Jimmie had given him a small packet of them, and like the bacon he'd found them pleasant. So did the horse who'd wheedled a couple from him. He stretched before mounting and gathering up the reins. It was delightful to be able to do things, different things like enjoying the company of an animal, without the constant scrutiny of the Peacekeepers. True things were more relaxed now that they'd set up their own small army, but everyone still looked to him as a leader and leaders had to be circumspect. Here there was no one to watch and criticise him. There was only the song of the birds in the trees and the ocasional scratching as a small animal scurried by completely unfazed by the rythmic foorsteps of the horse.

The sun was at its zenith when he finally reached the clearing where Sareel and the two Crichtons were camped. Bobby scurried up to daisy and wagged his tail, barking happily.

Crichton turned to see what the dog was barking at and nearly dropped the pail of water he was carrying to a small tent.

"Frell no."

He sat down on the ground.

"I'm hallucinating."

He shook his head.

"Too much sun."

Scorpius dismounted and walked over to where the human was sitting, eyes tight closed, repeating over and over, "When I open my eyes he'll be gone."

"Hello John."

Crichton opened one eye and then the other.

"Aw no Scorpie. You'll spoil the fishing."

"I was hoping to partake of the pastime. Learn how to do some things that humans find pleasurable."

Hearing the voices, Sareel came out of the camper. Her mouth opened but nothing came out of it.. Jack came out and seeing Scorpius walked over.

"What brings you here?"

His voice was friendly but Scorpius noticed that his eyes were wary.

"I decided that a change of scenery would not be amiss. I am eager to see why fishing holds such a fascination for you all."

"How did you get here?"

The scientist indicated Daisy who hed her head down grazing.

"That excellent animal brought me. Have you got somewhere for her to graze safely?"

Jack indicated the picket line where their horses were tied.

"There is no need to restrain her. She will not stray."
s
"You sure about that?"

"Perfectly."

"Then just unsaddle her and let her go where she wants. Have you got a tent?"

Scorpius shook his head.

"Sleeping in the open presents no problem for me. Where can I put my provisions? Preferably where the horse cannot reach her food."

Jack indicated the camper roof.

"That do?"

"Indeed it will."

He began putting his things away and then saw to Daisy.

****************

Sareel had joined John by the remains of the campfire.

"He's up to something Sareel. He rides in like John Wayne in black and claims he's on holiday. Tell you he's up to something.

"I have never known him lie John."

He squinted at her.

"Not even a teensy weensy bit sparing with the truth?"

She shook her head.

"He's brutally truthful. I've tried to get him to be tactful at times, without any success."

"So why the hell's he here."

"I guess he's missing Sareel."

She whipped round to face John's father.

"Oh no Jack. I don't think so."

"What don't you think my dear?"

Sareel positively snarled at the half Scarran.

"Just leave me alone Scorpius. I was starting to feel at ease with myself again and you frelling show up. Why don't you just get back on your horse and leave?"

"Because, I, like you need a vacation before we deal with Maldis. Things are quiet at present."

"The quiet before the storm."

"Exactly John."

Sareel was looking mutinous but Jack whispered something in her ear and her face softened. Scorpius felt something he hadn't thought possible. He felt hurt and left out as he realised that Sareel was sharing a close relationship with someone other than himself. Crichton noticed that he suddenly looked very weary.

"Sure you want to learn to fish Scorps?"

The half Scarran nodded. Crichton handed him a rod and picked up the other one and a keep net.

"C'mon then. There's no time like the present."

Part 14

Harvey was enjoying immensely playing the role of mein host. The military ladies were fascinated by his elegant manners and soft fur. There had been a snigger or two at his choice of wardrobe, but he'd borne those with good humoured banter. The only thing that was marring his enjoyment was the worry of what Furlow would arrive in. True to her word, a troupe of Sebbacian dancers had arrived, scantily clad and two Human males who'd been part of a male stripper group.

The senior officer on the base had smiled.

"Something for the women, eh, Harvey."

The Prelian had smiled and shot off to show the dancers where they could wait. They were delighted by his manners and he'd got a kiss on one striped cheek from the leader of the troupe.

"But where the frell's that woman. I thought she'd have been here by now."

His attention was taken by the entrance of a extensive amount of purple and gold silk topped by a large turban. Furlow had arrived. She marched up to Harvey.

"Hi Stripey. Whadcha think?"

She gave him a twirl.

"Impressive and may I say a great deal better than I'd expected."

"Told ya! I've had to attend some receptions in my day and no one could ever say I let them down."

She turned conspiratorially to him.

"Think anyone'd notice if I took these shoes off. They're frelling pinching the ends off my toes."

She just raised the hem of her gown and revealed a pair of the narrow shoes with the highest heels the Prelian had ever seen. Even in Crichton's mind he'd never seen anything like them.

"Remove them by all means. Most of them have consumed quite an amount of ras'lak, they'd never notice if the roof fell in."

She stuck the offending objects under the table.

"Phew, that's better. Hey Stripey, is there only ras'lak?"

"Earth wine and beer, they won't try it though. I quite like the wine."

"Gotta be better than Peacekeeper gutrot! I'll give it a whirl."

She planted a smacker on the surprised Harvey's cheek and set off for the bar like a galleon in full sail. Or so the Prelian imagined. It was a little something he'd gleaned from Crichton's memories of a rather large teacher from his High School days. The music changed and the dancing troupe sidled seductively onto the open space that had been reserved for their performance. He moved forward to get a better view. He remembered that he'd once tried to tempt Crichton with naked Sebbacian dancing girls.

"Ah, John you'll never know what pleasures you missed!"

***********************************

John Crichton was at that time cooking a large bass over the campfire. Scorpius had caught it earlier.

"Beginner's luck Scorps."

That was what he'd said but he had to acknowledge that the half Scarran had the patience needed to become a good fisherman. He'd almost been apologetic at catching a larger fish than the Human.

"I understand that there's a great deal of luck involved as to the size of fish you snare."

"It's skill too. And know how. Knowing the best places."

"Research your project thoroughly and you'll always get a better result."

Jack had eaten earlier, a couple of quail that he'd trapped and had gone for a walk round the perimeter of the lake.

"Can't beat the starlight. No light pollution from cities now."

Sareel had shut herself in the camper and not emerged. Scorpius stretched his arms above his head.

"Has she done much of that?""

Crichton shook his head.

"Nope. She was all expansive until you showed up."

"I shall take her some food."

"She'll probably throw it at you. Plate and all!"

"Does she hate me do you think?"

"Dunno, Scorps. Hard to say what she really feels. She's one very confused female."

Scorpius was silent as John removed the fish fron the spit and cut it into three pieces. He handed a plate to the scientist.

"You can give it a try but don't say that I didn't warn you."

Scorpius got gracefully to his feet.

"Frell you", thought Crichton, "You're a sexy bastard, move with the grace of a cat and you don't even realise it."

He moved swiftly over to the camper and knocked on the door. The top half flew open and Sareel's pale face appeared. He held out the plate.

"It's fresh. We caught it this afternoon."

She shook her head.

"I'm not really hungry."

"You should eat you know my dear girl. You get very cranky when you don't."

She raised one eyebrow.

"I do?"

He nodded.

"I didn't know."

"Well it's very difficult to see ourselves."

"Is that a confession?"

"Should it be?"

"You have treated me like a worker, sometimes like a possession, seldom like a friend and companion or partner. You haven't given me what I need."

He thought for a couple of microts.

"Does Jack?"

"Jack, bless him, is considerate and gentle, he treats me like a person. I really need that Scorpius. I've been so confused since going through the Eye of Infinity. Strangely neither you or Crichton seem affected."

"I have on occasion, seen things that were strange to me. Things in my mind. I suspect if you asked Crichton he might have experienced similar."

"Then there's the thing about Maldis. It was hard enough having to combat the Scarrans, but with Maldis too."

"You have fear Sareel?"

She nodded.

"Then he's already half way to winning. That's exactly what he wants."

"I know and I've tried to be strong about it. But I still get the fear of the unknown."

"Then it's an excellent reason why we should all forge an allegiance."

She nodded.

"That's logical."

He peered at her rather like a magpie eyeing a bright object.

"You feeling well enought to join us at the fire side?"

She gave a half smile.

"At least it'll be warm there."

She took the plate from his hand and walked with him to the fire side. Crichton looked up as he saw their shadows approaching.

"Hi princess. The ivory tower too lonely?"

"I am hungry."

"Good enough reason. Here have a hunk of bread to go with your fish."

*****************

Urana was grooming Rool in her quarters on the Earth base. He showed all his needle like teeth and looked quite ferocious.

"You enjoying it?"

She felt the pleasure ripple through his weasel like body and the scales on his head flushed with colour.

"Oh no Rool."

She laughed, a pleasant, tinkling sound.

"I can't provide a female here. You know how rare your kind are in this part of the galaxy anyway."

The ogroop made a mewing sound.

"Sorry and all that little friend. "

She finished brushing his fur and cleaned out the brush.

"You know little one, we need Sout here to strengthen the defence against Maldis. Do you think you can find him?"

Rool looked into the distance.

"No? Oh well he is excellent at hiding his whereabouts. I'll try later."

********************

The man in question was at that time enjoying a cup of rice wine with a new friend. They were sat crossed legged on a tatami.

"Excellent, Sensai."

The grey haired man inclined his head.

"The best for the best, Adajo."

"There are better than I, Sensai."

"In your realms perhaps, but you are more than my equal. There is little more I can teach you."

Sout peered into the cup.

"In the Suran Da there is a story of a technique for reaching into the realms of the obscure, between dimensions as it were."

The Sensai was silent.

"By your silence I feel that you have a similar story."

"Maybe."

There was silence from both men. All that could be heard was the sound of water pouring from the spout of the deer scarer and the clack as it returned to collect more water, crowned by the incessant chirp of the house crickets. Symbols of good fortune. Peaceful sounds in a far from peaceful time. Finally the older man set down his cup and fixed Sout with a penetrating stare.

"Exactly why would you be interested in this, this myth?"

"Evil forces are abroad Sensai. Forces that exist between here, now and all time."

"In older times they were considered to be evil spirits, Adajo, but I think we know better."

"What do you know of the Eye of Infinity?"

The sensai started.

"How do you know of it Adajo?"

"Friends of mine have travelled through it."

"And survived?"

"They went in on the point of death and re-appeared whole and well."

"Then they are the first and that's ominous."

"Why do you say that?"

The grey haired man stood up,

"Come walk with me round the garden my son. This is not a tale for the confines of the training hall."

The early evening air was sweet and cool. The day had been sultry with the promise of a storm, but it had passed without coming to fruition. The carefully crafted pines hung over the sculpted stones in the artfully designed garden. Sout felt at peace with himself, but had a mild sense of foreboding.

"All our disciplines are somehow connected in to a wider consciousness, I think."

The Morgul nodded.

"The Suran Da have always thought so!"

"Your friends. Tell me more about them."

"One Human male, one Scarran Sebbacian male and a female raised by a priest sect on Vaud. Not I think of their race."

"It is as I feared. The Ass, the Dragon and Lady Moon."

"A story?"

"Yes. Not time to recount it all, but the King of Evil was rampant in the universe and out of the Eye came a stubborn man, a quiet man with fire in his veins and a woman with strange powers. They joined battle with Evil."

"And what was the outcome of this story?"

"As long as they were alive, a balance was struck. Evil has to exist you know."

Sout nodded.

"Opposite side of a coin."

"But it must be balanced by good."

Sout chuckled.

"There are a lot of people who think of Crichton, Scopius and Sareel as thoroughly bad."

"Your opinion?"

"They are driven people. And they are fighting themselves at the moment."

"Bad indeed. I presume the female is secure?"

Sout looked puzzled.

"In what respect Sensai?"

"One or both the males provides her male essence, Yin to Yang."

"Scorpius cares for her, but can't express it, Crichton well he's impreganted her once with drastic results."

The sensai peered at Sout.

"What results?"

"He triggered an old Scarran gene for Bloodlust."

The grey haired teacher scratched his head.

"Your pardon please. Am I being dense, but how did she come to have that gene?"

"Another long story, but the half Scarran scientist tried to alter her to bind her to him."

"Oh dear, a fatal mistake with a woman. The harder you try to tie them down, the further away they move."

"He knows that now and is rueful of the fact. The fault is his and his upbringing. He has difficulty in believing that he can be liked for himself."

"And the female feels let down and betrayed. Am I not right?"

Sout nodded.

"But if he gave out the right signals, Sensai, she'd be there in the twinkling of an eye."

The older man stopped and indicated a wooden bench.

"Do you feel like a little meditation Adajo?"

Sout caught the impish grin on the Sensai's face.

"Channel a little energy?"

"Why not. Now what's the woman's name again?"

Part 15

"I have no orders and nothing to do Talyn. The war's come to an impasse."

The young Leviathan twittered his sympathy. He was bored too, lacking the action he was bred for. They were on the ground. Earth's gravity was less than the optimum that prevented his landing and Crais was taking the opportunity to get all his systems in tip top condition, as he'd been somewhat damaged in their last skirmish. In fact they'd only just escaped the Scarran mindow that was chasing them. He was last of the small contingent and Crais had just managed to collapse the wormhole behind them. Somehow he had the feeling that the mindow had been swallowed up in the flux that happened when a wormhole closed, but that was justice.

The hatches were open and he suddenly heard the sound of approaching feet.

"Need any help or can I install this?"

Furlow held up a large tube with wires coming from it.

"What is it?"

"A phase enhancer. Hoping it'll mute the energy flare that precedes wormhole formation."

He looked dubious.

"Moya's got one. Installed it myself yesterday."

"The way things are going we're stuck here on this planet for good."

She cocked her head.

"I know a lota places that are a frelling sight worse."

"I would think that likely! Oh install it. I'll tell Talyn to co-operate. It's best to be prepared just in case."
He instructed Talyn to let the technician fit the unit and stomped off to his quarters. The Leviathan gently burbled. Furlow couldn't understand what he said but patted his bulkhead.

"It'll be fine youngster. Your mother's wanting some action too and so's Pilot. They've never been in this sector before and want to explore. This Maldis thing's hamstringing everyone."

She made her way down to where the wormhole initiator was situated, close to the starburst chamber. The inititiator drew on the same energy. A DRD scuttered crazily at her feet.

"Hey watch where you're going! Almost had me over."

She bant down and picked the tiny bot up.

"Let's see what's the matter with you."

She turned it over and found that two of the small wheels that it used on the level were seized.

"Soon fix that!"

Reaching into one of the copious pockets of her overalls, she brought out a spray of lubricant.

"A quick spray! A little manipulation and there you're as good as new.!

The DRD twittered and did a couple of circles and went up up her and touched her with its eye stalks before moving off down the corridor, Furlow watched it and an idea came into her mind.

"Gotta get Sareel back soon. This needs her touch!"

***************************

Sareel, John, Jack and Scorpius were investigating the surrounding countryside on horse back. Bobby was scampering behind, putting up small animals and then barking excitedly.

"You're suppose to chase them, you stupid mutt!"

John laughed as the dog came up to his horse, tail wagging and tongue lolling out. Jack caught him up.

"He's enjoying himself and so am I. We needed this son."

John nodded and then glanced behind where Sareel and Scorpius were following, deep in conversation. Jack smiled.

"They've got a lot of fence repairing to do."

"Can't see Scorpie as your average suitor."

"Sareel isn't your average woman!"

"That's for sure!"

"Come on better pick the pace up if we're going to make the bluff by evening."

He urged his horse into a jog and John followed. He turned and saw that the other two were still engrossed in their conversation.

"Hey you two step up lively or we won't make the bluff by sundown."

Scorpius lifted his head and raised his right hand.

"Coming John!"

******************************

Sleeping arrangements for the night stop were minimal. Two small tents and sleeping bags. Jack and John in one, Scorpius and Sareel in the other. She was knelt down, unzipping her bag when she felt a tap on her shoulder. Looking up she gazed straight into Scorpius's intent grey eyes.

"They will, I believe join together to make one larger."

There was silence.

"That is if you wish it."

Her eyes were moist and a tear ran down her cheek. He wiped it away with one black gloved finger and bent down and raised her up.

"You're fighting yourself again Sareel. Believe me I know from my own experience that only leads to bitter unhappiness."

"I wish I could believe that."

"I can't begin to express the soul searching that I have undergone. I who for so many years have lived only for revenge, lived by science and logic, driven by my agenda, my perception of my goal. Can you imagine how shattered I felt when I finally realised that there was more? A great deal more to being alive. I felt bitter hatred toward my paternal progenitor, swore to kill him."

"You did!"

"That was on Pharas. The whole thing of the time shift may have seriously changed matters. I have heard rumours that he lives."

"But you killed him!"

"Others have been resurrected. It is getting increasingly difficult to differentiate fact from fiction!"

"I did love you, but it wasn't what you wanted."

"The fault was entirely mine. I couldn't see the treasure that was in my grasp! I find...er..coming to terms with the fact that I have an emotional side, difficult."

He looked down at her, hope in his eyes.

"This is hard. I have never done this before Sareel, believe me."

There was a moments silence.

"Can you forgive me Sareel? For all the hurt I've inflicted on you, knowingly and unknowingly."

More tears were rolling down her cheeks when to his surprise she launched herself at him, clasping her arms round the back of his neck and burrowing her face into his chest. He gently placed an arm round her, protectively, hardly daring to breathe in case she suddenly changed her mind. Looking down on the top of her head, her short corn coloured hair made him feel that he wanted to stroke it. Gently he brushed it back. Finally she pushed gently away and rubbed her nose. There was a dent in the side.

"That hurt! Scorpius can't you remove that frelling reptile off your back. You're not coming to bed wearing that."

For the first time in his life he burst out laughing. Not the small reserved chuckle that he'd always allowed himself, but a full blooded hearty laugh. Finally he had to sit down on the floor.

"Forgive me my dear girl, this is new to me. I couldn't help myself. You must give me a microt, my ribs hurt."

"They do when you laugh a lot."

She peered at him and ran her finger down his nose.

"A tear? Didn't know you could?"

"Not with the profuseness of yourself or Humans, but there are times when an occasional lacrymatory droplet manifests itself.

She just looked at him and said,"Huh? Cut out the scientifica Scorpius. You cry! You do. I love it, you're almost Human!"

He laughed again.

"Hardly my dear, but yes I own that my emotions are, like yours similar in nature to Human ones."

He suddenly looked serious.

"However I think you'll agree that they should not learn of this fact."

She kissed his cheek.

"Agreed. Now I'm knackered and want to sleep. Show me how these two make one."

"Knackered?"

"Er.. heard it from Crichton. Means totally worn out."

"Does it indeed!"

He rapidly zipped the two bags together and Sareel slipped inside . He made to follow.

"Scorpius!"

"Yes!"

"Haven't you forgotten something?"

"Nothing that I can think of."

"The reptile!"

"Ah.. yes."

He removed the surcoat and got into the bag. Sareel turned and snuggled up to him. It felt good. He finally realised that there was one thing in the universe more important than revenge or wormholes. Protecting and caring for Sareel. His mind chuckled. Difficult female. It wasn't going to be easy, but failure wasn't to be contemplated. He went to sleep with one arm draped casually round her.

********************************

Sout and the Karate master were sitting facing one another on the tatami. Both appeared to be asleep, but close observation of their breathing rate would have shown otherwise. It was far below the usual and long and deep. Suddenly the Sensai opened his eyes and stretched his arms above his head. Sout's eyes opened and he yawned.

"Did you see what I saw Adajo?"

"Scorpius you mean?"

"The menacing one in black.!

"That's Scorpius. Yes it was so difficult for him to finally realise the true nature of his emotion."

The Sensai smiled.

"Not dissimilar to many Humans Sout. And in your species?"

"Ah, we appreciate the finer things in living. And believe me our females don't let us get away with neglecting them."

"The woman, Sareel. What exactly is she?"

Sout shrugged.

"Who can know. She was raised by the Vaud, but everything now points to the probability that she isn't of that species. But again that's a puzzle in itself. They aren't renowned for adopting children of other species. Especially the priest sect who had her."

"That begs the question Adajo, what where they given or promised?"

Sout was silent.

"You know that idea hadn't even crossed my mind."

The master patted the Morgul's arm.

"In many ways Sout, you are still an innocent."

"Me! Oh I beg to differ. With all the killing and double dealing I've been witness of, I think not."

"Not in that respect. In the subtler dealings of species. I think you could take lessons from Scorpius in that."

"Ah but would he teach me?"

The Sensai laughed.

"Ask him!"

************************************

Furlow couldn't wait for Sareel's return. She ferreted out Urana.

"Look, they say you're a wise one. I may have the answer to the problem with this Maldis fella. Wanted to talk it over first with Sareel but she's still away."

Urana nodded.

"Come in and sit down. Any solution is acceptable, though I must admit one has so far eluded me."

"Well here's what I think!"

Part 16

"I tell you you don't do it like that!"

Sareel was getting quite agitated. She and Scorpius were on the bank of the lake standing on a small bluff. They were casting for bass. Scorpius had cultivated a small elegant flick to launch the fly into the water. Finally he put down the rod and confronted her.

"The way you cast tells every fish in the region that you're here."

She pouted and he thought how delightful she looked.

"Well at least it gets out further than yours."

"Mmm. I'll grant you that."

"Are you teasing me?"

"The goddess forbid my dear girl. Tease you, would I do a thing like that?"

She looked a little lost.

"Well Crichton does!"

"But you surely must have noticed that I bear no resemblance to Crichton."

"No that's true."

Then she saw the gleam in his eye.

"Slatnik! "

She pushed him hard and he overbalanced and fell into the water. He grasped her hand as he fell and they both entered the water with a resounding splash and shout.

*************************

Back at the campsite Crichton was snoozing with a hat over his face. Bobby curled up beside him. Hearing the noise he sat up.

"Dad did you hear that?"

"Yes Son. I did."

"What's happened?"

Jack came and sat down beside his son and yawned.

"Scorpius and Sareel. They seem to have fallen in the lake."

"How? Why? Hell they're fishing, what did they catch? Moby Dick?"

"Nothing like that. I think they're playing."

Crichton stared at his father and shook his head.

"Just run that by me again. I think my hearing's going."

Jack chewed on a grass stalk.

"They were playing"

"Holy Moses, thought that was what you said. Things ain't ever gonna to be the same again. Not by a long chalk."

He fondled Bobby's ear.

"Can't be the same Scorpie! It's got to be a hologram."

"Well they made a heck of a splash for patterns of light."

He looked up at the sky.

"Lucky it's warm today. They'll dry off quickly."

There was the sound of giggling come from the path to the lake and the Crichtons were regaled with the sight of two sodden and dripping figures coming towards them. Sareel was picking weed out of her hair. Scorpius had a long piece regally draped across his shoulders. Crichton couldn't help himself, he fell about laughing.

Scorpius snarled and Sareel giggled again.

"Scorpie, you look like Neptune rising from the sea with his favourite mermaid."

"I don't know who Neptune is but he's welcome to the water."

John wrinkled his nose.

"Hey just what is that smell. Smells like a sewer. But we don't have any of those around here."

Scorpius rounded on the still laughing Crichton.

"Just say one word about this when we return to the base and I shall personally lock you into the Aurora chair and throw away the key."

Sareel to was getting back to her serious self.

"Frell this stuff stinks. Jack is there anywhere we can wash it off?"

He pointed to the back of the clearing.

"About fifty yards through the trees. A small waterfall and pool. It's quite private."

Sareel poked Scorpius in the ribs and John gasped at her new audacity.
"The reptile's going to take a bit of drying."

"I shall wash it. It will not I think have come to much harm. I keep it well oiled."

Crichton gaped at him.

"Whatcha oil it for Scorps?"

"If you must know Crichton, when it was new you could hear me coming at ten metrons."

"You creaked!"

"As you are well aware it was chosen to add to my air of authority. And I grew to like it."

Jack got up and reached into his saddle bag and chucked a cake of soap to Sareel who deftly caught it. John watched their backs disappearing into the trees.

"Nope thing's will never be the same again."

*******************************

Rool padded into the clearing and smelt the dog. Urana had dispatched him to retrieve the vacationing group. Squeaking vigorously he attracted Bobby'a attention. The dog loped over, tongue hanging out.

"Ogroop!"

"Dog!"

Bobby sniffed the ogroop.

"Good to see you."

"Really, do you have to do that!"

"It's polite."

"Mmm not where I come from it isn't. Now down to serious matters. The Fey needs the Humans and the female to return."

"So?"

"I thought you had some communication with your Human."

"Well yes but he doesn't always get my meaning."

"So this is what I suggest we do."

***************************************

Sareel and Scorpius had been somewhat more subdued than the day before. The surcoat had as Scorpius suspected, come to no harm and his bodysuit was totally waterproof. His boots were the only casualty and were lying upside down draining and drying out. John had come on him before they were dry.

"You only have four toes!"

"That is not unusual. You may be used to seeing beings with five digits, it varies from species to species. Scarrans only have four toes."

"Yeah well when I come to think of it so has Sparky. It didn't really register."

"The difference bothers you?"

He shook his head.

"Hell no. It's just that it never struck me before."

Sareel came out of the camper.

"Crichton, Bobby's wandered off. I've called him but there's no response."

"I suppose I'll have to go search for him. He's probably chasing squirrels and pretending he's Scooby Doo."

"Who's Scooby Doo."

"You don't really want to know ."

"Bad?"

"Boring. Gotta find the mutt before he gets into trouble."

He hadn't got further than the fringe of the woodland when a strange procession entered the clearing. Four horses quietly walking in line with Bobby and Rool behind. John went over and bent down and fondled the dog's head.

"Hey boy, what's up?"

Bobby licked him and walked over to where the saddles were stacked and nosed the nearest one. Jack joined his son.

"Think they're trying to tell us something?"

Sareel pointed to the ogroop.

"Urana can talk with that one, so I hazard a guess that she wants us back."

John looked vaguely annoyed.

"Frell! Just when I was starting to feel my old self again."

Sareel suddenly grinned.

"You too. I feel better than I have in monen."

Scorpius inspected his boots and pulled them on. Sareel grimaced.

"I'll bet they're still wet inside."

"Shouldn't worry about it Sareel. A bit of water never hurt anyone."

Scorpius snarled and then said quietly.

"Perhaps we can do this again. Later on."

"You think we're gonna survive for a later Scorpie?"

"If the Fey requests our return then I can only surmise that it's for the very best of reasons."

"Maldis has shown up again."

"I sincerely hope not. I've only heard you talk about him and I want to steer clear of him."

Scorpius eyed her.

"Together, I believe we will prevail."

Jack had started collecting their things and packing them in the camper.

"Hey Dad just had a thought. The trailer only takes three horses."

"No problem son. You Scorpius and Sareel are the ones the Fey probably wants back. I'll ride home."

"You're sure?"

Jack slapped his son on the back.

"Sure I'm sure, just leave me some food for myself and the horse and the small tent. I'll see you in a couple of days."

Scorpius caught up Daisy and suddenly remembered that Jimmie had said that she was trailer shy. He stroked her between the ears and she dropped her head and buried her muzzle in his chest. John just gaped.

"You're full of surprise Scorps. You a horse whisperer too?"

"I have always had an affinity with animals Crichton. However life aboard a command carrier and on a scientific base precludes keeping them."

He slipped the halter over her head and led her up the ramp. She followed him without any hesitation. He fastened the rope to one of the rings and patted her nose.

"Good girl. Very good girl."

He walked down the ramp past Sareel who was having to urge her horse up the incline.He patted the horse on the rump and it shot up into the trailer almost knocking over a surprised Vaud. John scratched behind his ear and his horse nosed in the pocket at the back of his jeans.

"No. No goodies in there today. You going up nicely or are you planning to show me up?"

The horse whickered as they went towards the trailer. Daisy answered as John led the paint up the ramp and tied it in beside the mare.

"Well that's a surprise. Things may be starting to go our way."

***********************************

Urana had arranged for them all to meet on their return. She was down on the base and Furlow was nosing round the warehouse on the edge of the complex, looking for parts.

Sareel, Scorpius and Crichton had made their way back from Jimmie's having returned the horses and camping equipment. Scorpius had made an arrangement regarding Daisy. He'd agreed to pay the horse's keep in return for sole use of her. It had crossed his mind that a couple of ahn on horseback in the countryside could be beneficial in clearing his mind and enable him to focus clearly on matters on hand. Sareel seemed a great deal happier and more at ease with herself and the scientist hoped fervently that it would last. Sareel happy was a pleasurable experience, Sareel confused and unhappy, was best avoided. She sat down on one of the chairs which surrounded the table in the smaller of the two meeting rooms.

"Wonder why Urana wanted us back?"

"That we will know in due course. Crichton must you pace?"

"It's being confined again after all that wide open space. Don't you ever do it?"

"Seldom. It would have hardly enhanced my standing with the Peacekeepers."

There was the sound of heavy boots and d'Argo walked in.

"Aeryn and Rygel are following."

"I've missed the little fella."

"And Aeryn?"

John grimaced.

"No use crying over spilt milk. Evidently I'm not what she wants."

Sareel looked at him.

"Does she know what she wants?"

D'Argo laughed.

"That's what happens when Peacekeepers lose their way. Totally confused by the world outside. By the way where's the Morgul."

"On his way back but not yet arrived."

"Urana!"

John kissed her on both cheeks.

Her eyes twinkled mischeviously.

"You'll have to watch it Crichton. I might just take that on face value."

Rygel and Aeryn appeared and the Fey got every one seated.

"Just Furlow to come and we can begin."