Desperate Solutions- PART 2
Phi Phi 'Le Trelk'

Disclaimer:
All Characters belong to Henson and Company.

Rating:
NC13 for content

Synopsis:
D'Argo, John and Aeryn journey to Earth and Scorpius calls a meeting of old enemies, hoping to make new allies.

Feedback:
Is always welcome. Thanks to LA Scaper for all her help and ideas and beta work.


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Earth/ Crichton Home....



Jack sat quietly in his dim living room, listening as John updated him on their past actions leading up to their last run in with the Scarrans. When John finished, Jack turned his gaze on Aeryn. "My god...are you sure you're okay? The baby...is it?"

Aeryn nodded, smiling gently. "Un huh. We're both fine. Thanks to Noranti."

"We ran outta choices dad. I had to create another wormhole and used it to travel here. If you are willing dad...we want to leave Aeryn here on Earth. On Earth she and the baby will be well out of Scarran reach." John smoothed Aeryn 's hair back away from her face, massaging her scalp.

Jack watched the simple but loving gesture. A grandchild...he was going to be a grandfather again. This child was special...so very special, for so many reasons. It was John's child, a child Jack never thought would exist for him. It would be the first child in Earth's history to be born of a human and alien mating. Oh yes his second grandchild would be special indeed. This child would need all the help he could give it. "You're right son, Aeryn and the baby are safer here. What's your plan while she's here on Earth?"

John felt a rush of relief flow through his entire being at his father's words. His love would be safe, while he took care of the Scarrans. "We find the Scarran base that is holding the DNA that they stole from Aeryn, the baby and me. No more prisoners, this time the gloves come off. They want John Crichton...they're about to get him! Sorry Pop, but my body count has been reset and I'm sure its gonna hit an all time high!"

Jack closed his eyes briefly. In his mind's eye he saw the sacrifices that his only son had already made. John would never again be the open-eyed optimist that had left Earth's orbit almost five years ago. "After what you've just told me son, make sure you add a few to the list for me. When the Scarrans attacked Aeryn, they attack the entire Crichton clan." He winked at Aeryn, sending her a reassuring smile.

"We are..." D'Argo began to speak but his words were cut off by an unexpected squeal from the living room's entryway, which sent him reaching for his Qualta blade.

"John is that...Aeryn...D'Argo? Oh my god, what are you...when did...how?" Olivia Crichton couldn't finish her statements, her excitement and surprise working against her.

John jumped to his feet. "Livvie!" He held his arms wide to capture his sister's rushing body. D'Argo stood as well and waited his turn to hug John's sister.

Olivia turned in D'Argo's arms to greet Aeryn. Her smiled brightened as she caught sight of her mother's ring on Aeryn's finger. I knew it! I knew you two were into each other! Yesterday my butt! Congratulations!"

John helped Aeryn to her feet. "Congratulations yourself auntie Livvie!"

Olivia pulled a face at John. "What's with the title? Bobby's old enough to be a...wait a minute! Oh my...are you and Aeryn?" She swung a wide-eyed gaze toward Aeryn.

Aeryn smiled and nodded. "Yes we're having a baby. Are you surprised?"

Olivia laughed out loud. "Am I? I knew something was still going on strong between you two." She looked up at John. "That's why I gave you the ring. The speculation was that you and Aeryn were lovers and after her lengthy pause at Monroe's possible human and Sebacean mating question, some actually thought that she might be pregnant. How far along are you?"

John nodded his arms around Aeryn. "Yeah, we saw the special. Aeryn's almost five months."

"Well they were off on the pregnancy part." Olivia kissed Aeryn.

Aeryn shook her head, an amused half grin shaping her lips. "Well...uh...not exactly."

"Huh?" Olivia asked stunned. Shaking her head she pointed a finger at Aeryn. "Oh no I am more than sure you weren't pregnant the last time I saw you."

"Actually I was...about four weekens...uh...weeks four weeks." Aeryn supplied.

Olivia frowned. "How's that possible?"

"Umm...well...let's see, Sebacean women...well Peacekeepers have a very unique reproductive cycle. When a we ...um...conceives our bodies secrets an enzymatic fluid that freezes the embryo. It will stay frozen until a surgeon releases it from stasis or until the reproductive system releases it. That could take up to seven cyc...years." Aeryn explained, feeling a bit more alien with every word.

Jack stared at Aeryn through amazed eyes. "Unbelievable! Amazing...simply amazing! Our world should be trying to learn from yours. Instead they fear it."

"Well in Earth's defense, the Peacekeepers aren't the most friendly." Aeryn answered.

Olivia stared open mouth at Aeryn. The more she learned about Aeryn, the more fascinated she became. She had a sister-in-law from another universe literally! "Wow...I..."

John reached over and pushed Olivia's lower jaw up. "Close your mouth kid, you'll catch flies."

Olivia laughed, happy to see her brother once again. She batted his hand away, speaking to Aeryn. "So you had the baby released from stasis four and a half months ago? How long did you carry the baby in stasis?"

Aeryn cut a quick glance at John before answering. "Uhh...um...I...uh...actually I've been pregnant for almost five years...well four years and three months actually."

Olivia blinked for what seem like an eternity. She didn't quite know what to say but that didn't stop her. "Five...that means." She did the math quickly in her mind. "You had to have gotten pregnant...what...seven months after John went through the Wormhole?" She grinned at John. "Well you didn't waste any time, did you?"

"Great now that we can all count, let's move on shall we?" John muttered, a little uncomfortable discussing his sex life with his little sister.

Jack nodded. "Yes...yes, after what happened to Aeryn, I think this is the safest place for her...for them both."

Olivia gaze shifted from her father to her brother. "Aeryn is staying? Okay...so what don't I know?"

John answered. "Well sis, you know those big bad aliens I told you about last time?"

"Yeah?" Olivia nodded.

"Well they managed to kidnap Aeryn twice. The last time I almost lost them both. They won't stop until they have her and I can't let that happen. Coming home was the last choice." He paused for a second, catching his breath. "Dad and I agree that Earth is the best solution. Do you mind if she stays? I know that its asking a lot of you but will you help dad protect her and keep her hidden? I'll be gone for three months max."

Olivia nodded. "Of course! You know I'll do everything and anything I can. One problem. Everyone in this neighborhood definitely knows Aeryn, matter of fact most of the globe does. Although with a new hair do and a make over she may just fit in. You know that whole 'I look like a star but I'm not' bit." Staring questioningly at her father, she asked. "What are we going to do?"

Jack rubbed at his chin. "We leave."

Aeryn's features clouded. "No...no John, I can't...I don't want your family to move. This was a mistake. We've been here for a few arns...ho...hours...a few hours and already they're moving!"

Jack stood and moved over to Aeryn, kneeling in front of her he spoke softly. "Aeryn, my son loves you, he's married you. The two of you are about to have a baby...my grandbaby. You made John happier in five years than I'd seen him all his life. For those reasons alone, I would give up everything, not to mention one other thing."

Aeryn stared into his eyes. "What?"

He reached for Aeryn's hand, holding it firmly, never taking his eyes away from hers.
"Because Aeryn Sun Crichton, you're mine now...part of my family. I'll be damned if I'm going to let someone...anyone hurt you again." Jack shot D'Argo a meaningful look. "That protection stands for all of you. You have been more than a friend to him and I will be forever grateful to you and the others on Moya."  

Aeryn finally released her worry and tension. Her answering smile was the most beautiful sight Jack had seen in a long time. Nodding her head she answered. "Alright, if you're sure."

"I've never been more sure in my life." Jack responded. He stood and placed a kiss on Aeryn's forehead. Glancing around the room, he addressed them all. "Then it's settled Aeryn will stay here. Until John and the others return."

John smiled at his father and sister. "Thanks guys, you have no idea how much that reassures me. Dad, if you leave where will you go?"

Jack opened his mouth to speak but stopped suddenly, his eyes bright with excitement. "Hold on!" He rushed from the room.

"What was that all about?" John asked his sister.

Olivia shrugged. "I have no idea. Sometimes dad can be as strange as you. But in light of what has been going on the past few years, I guess he has an excuse. Then again he's always been a bit off." She finished.

John chuckled. "Yes he has. But no matter how strange he can be, the man is as sharp as a tack."

Olivia laughed. "Yeah, you and DK could never get past him. Remember that time you and he decided that the best way to experience space, was to stow away on a shuttle." She turned to Aeryn, laughing. "Those two fools decided to hitch a ride to Cape Canaveral, sneak in with the night crew and wait until morning before sneaking onto the shuttle."

D'Argo chuckled. "His plans are always a bit foolish."

Aeryn giggle softly at John. "You actually thought that plan would work?"

"Hey! It was a sound plan!" John defended. "At least it sounded good at the time."
"Oh the soundness of the plan wasn't the problem. Oh no! My dear brother had every step written down; only he left the steps in his room, on his desk for dad to find! Well while dad was on his way to get them. They decided to find a good hiding place..."

"Hey! You know what sis? Aeryn and D are probably not interested in my boyhood trials." John interrupted.

Aeryn shook her head. "Oh no! Don't stop...please. I want to hear it all." She looked at D'Argo. "You?"

D'Argo smiled his voice full of laughter. "Oh yes. I definitely want to hear the rest of this."

Olivia continued. "Well the dynamic dual found the perfect  hiding place alright they also find themselves locked in a utility closet that no one on base seemed to have the key to. Dad shows..."

"Hey....man that...this is completely unfair!" Laughing, John moved over to Olivia and tried to cover her mouth only to have his hand swatted out of the way.

Olivia's voice rose playfully. "Anyway! Dad shows up to find half the base and security trying to get into the room. Needless to say the idiots didn't make it to the moon that night but after their punishment, I know they wish they had."

Between fits of laughter Aeryn choked out. "Only you would try to stow away on a shuttle and end up locked in a utility closet! I told you your plans never work!"

D'Argo coughed through his laughter. "He still gets lost on Moya!"

John pointed at D'Argo. "Hey you promised not to tell!"

D'Argo shook his head still laughing. "And I didn't...well only Aeryn and your sister."

Jack returned to the raucous living room. "What on earth is going on in here? I leave for a moment and come back and you guys are having a regular laugh riot!"

John sobered a bit before trying to speak. "Hey dad. Livvie was just telling Aeryn and D about the time me and DK tried to stow away on the space shuttle.

Jack's eyes shut momentarily in remembrance. Chuckling around his words he answered. "You two were inseparable in and out of trouble. I miss that boy."

The room quieted immediately, every one knew exactly who Jack meant. John felt his throat tighten and the tears begin. "I miss him too dad. What statement did IASA  give regarding the incident?"

Jack answered. "It's hush...hush son. If you don't need to know, you don't know. That's the word. I think some realize that they are gone and others simply think that they are off on research for the government." Jack decided to change the subject as the current one was a bit too much to handle at the moment. "Hey son, you remember my old friend Dr. Mitchell South?"

John nodded "Yeah, how's Doc South these days? Still handin out all day suckers?"

"Oh he's handin em' out but not here any longer. He packed up his practice and moved to Maldives. He's been after me to purchase some property down there for the last three years...says he's got his eye on a piece ocean front property for me, not far from his own. Well he happens to be here visiting his daughter and her new baby. We're having lunch tomorrow to discuss the property." Jack smiled at the amazed look on his son's face. "What? Did you doubt me?"

John moved to embrace his father. "Never you dad."

D'Argo never quick to trust spoke up. "Are you sure we can trust this man? I mean no offense but...well"

Jack beckoned to D'Argo, who moved toward him slowly. "D'Argo, I would never lead you, Aeryn or my grandchild to danger. Mitch and I served together and I have trusted him with my life and my family's life for a very long time. He would never endanger any of us! Besides which I didn't mention that any of you were here." His gaze encompassed the room. "Before I discuss any of this with him, I wanted to ask you guys first." I also wanted to talk to him about managing Aeryn's prenatal care. With your permission of course."

John began to shake his head. "Uhhh...dad, I don't know about that...I mean that's a huge leap from buying a piece of property. I do trust Doc South but I'm a bit leery where Aeryn is concerned."

"I understand John but Aeryn is going to need some form of prenatal care. especially after her encounter with the Scarrans." He smiled reassuringly at Aeryn, who seemed to be in the middle of her own thoughts.

"I know dad but..."

"No John, your father's right. While I do agree that we should be cautious. I don't think that your father would suggest someone without being sure of their attentions. Since I'll be here for a while I'll need some sort of medical care. You yourself know this Doctor South, you've known him most of your life."  

John's worried gaze found his father. "Dad...I know Doc South is cool...its just...you know." He stared back at Aeryn. "She's my life...my world."

Jack's expression softened. "I know son...I know."
D'Argo watched the play of emotion on John's face. "Well John, if your father can vouch for this man and you can honestly say that he will not leak the news of Aeryn's presence to anyone. Then I will go along with the rest of you."

Aeryn smiled up at D'Argo. "Thank you D'Argo, that means so much to me. John?"

Nodding he gave in. "Fine, Doc South is the sprite's new doctor."  

"Good, then it's settled." John's sister stepped in. "Why don't we all get some rest. Aeryn has to be exhausted and you brother dear aren't exactly the first blush either. "Olivia snickered, the joy at seeing her only brother again written on every feature.

"Oh ha...ha sis dear." John ruffled his sister's hair as though she was seven-year-old. "My room...still my room?"

Olivia hissed playfully, snatching her head away and running her fingers through the brown strands trying to straighten them. "Sure is only better and bigger. After our unexpected Christmas guest totaled most of the house dad had it remodeled." She held her hand out to Aeryn. "Come on Aeryn, I'll show you! You didn't get to stay here your last visit."

Aeryn reached for Olivia's hand and John's allowing them to pull her up from her place on the couch. "I always did like bigger."

John chuckled and followed the girls.




MOYA...


"Chiana walked soundlessly into Command. She didn't want to give her presence away to the tiny Hynerian studying the sensor readings. She stood for a moment before moving in for the attack, jumping with claws extended she shouted the dominar's name before tickling him "RYGEL!!!!"

Rygel refused to give into the threatening laughs, though a few chuckles did escape. "What...the hez...huh...hezmana...huh...are...ha...you trying to do! Will...you quite that! You loony trelk!"

Chiana bent over to stare into the tiny Hynerian's face. " What's the matter Ryg, Aeryn didn't leave any good stuff behind for you to steal?"

"As if you haven't already gone through her things yourself." Rygel snarled and returned his gaze back to the console.  

"I trust, that anything removed from Crichton's and Aeryn's quarters will be returned in a matter of arns." The dulcet tones of Pilot's melodious voice sounded though the comms.

"Of...of...of course Pilot." Chiana babbled, reaching over to thump Rygel between the ears. "You see what you did."  

"Me!" Came the Dominar's indignant answer.



~~~~~~~~~~



Noranti danced around the boiling pots before her, adding spices and herbs. "There!" She took a sip of the brew she was concocting and immediately flashed a neon orange. "No that's not it!" She added something else and her lips sprouted a green leafy substance. "Definitely not that." She said once she removed the greens.

A sudden shudder went through her body.  She stopped and stared straight ahead. "Oh no! Peacekeepers!"


Earth...



Jack walked into the dinning room, he sniffed the air appreciatively. "Do I smell fried chicken?"

"Yep." John waited until his father joined him at the table, before continuing. "So how did your meeting go?"

"I'm starving...I could eat a horse." Jack laughed.

John didn't bother to repeat the question. He knew his father would answer sooner or later. "Livvie and Aeryn are making dinner."

"We'll talk later." Jack answered John's question. Sniffing the air in appreciation. "Hmm...smells good. Didn't know Aeryn could cook?"

 John chuckled softly, quirking his eyebrows up and down comically. "Yeah she's quite the little woman. Truth be told, Aeryn and Chiana are the best cooks on the ship. Then there's granny."

"Well at least you were eating, well." Jack paused before moving on to the next subject. "Everything is set. Mitch has agreed to help us. He says that the property is still available and as soon as they receive and accept my bid, which we sent this afternoon, the adventure starts."

John nodded, reaching across the table to pat his dad's arm. "Thank you dad."  

"Yes, thank you sir." D'Argo spoke quietly from the doorway leading to the kitchen.

"D'Argo! I didn't hear you come in!" Jack laughed.

"Yeah, he's as quiet as a church mouse, that one." John quirked an eyebrow in D'Argo's direction. It took him a moment before the appetizing smells emanating from the dish D'Argo carried. "Ohhh my God! Is that baked macaroni and cheese? Oh there is definitely a God!" He wafted a bit of fragrant smoke toward his nose. "Oh man am I ready to eat!" his eyes continued to follow the dish as it was set in the center of the table.

"Dinner is served! A little help boys!"  Olivia called as she and Aeryn carried trays of food into the dinning room. John and Jack jumped to help the two women.

John stared at the food-laden table. "Fried chicken, macaroni and cheese, homemade biscuits, green beans and white potatoes, corn on the cob and peach cobbler. You ladies definitely out did yourself.

The small group sat down to eat with relish and Jack filled the rest in on the outcome of his meeting with Mitch.


~~~~~~~~



At the sound of the doorbell, D'Argo reached for his Qualta blade. Jack waved his hand, trying to keep the situation from getting out of hand. "It's okay D'Argo! It's just Mitch! Remember I told you he was coming over this morning?" He rushed to open the door.

D'Argo nodded but still retained a tight, ready hold on his sword. "Sorry, I forgot!"

John patted D'Argo on the shoulder as he moved past him. "It's cool D, better safe than sorry."

D'Argo frowned. "But I'm already sorry."

John shook his head. "No...it...D..uhh...its just an old saying. Never mind." He smiled as his father returned to the living room with his old friend Doctor Mitchell South. "Doc South, how are ya?"

Mitchell South was a tall, good looking man. Like John's father, he'd retained his good looks even in his sixties. His smile was an honest and friendly one, even when his gaze found D'Argo. He reached out to give John a quick hug and pat on the back. "John! It's good to see you again! I couldn't believe the call I got from your dad." He held his hand out to D'Argo. "I finally get to meet the Ka D'Argo. Hello, how are you?"

"I'm fine and everyone just calls me D'Argo." He responded. Shaking the man's hand.

"Have you had breakfast? Would you like some coffee Mitch?" Jack settled Mitch in a chair across from the couch.

Nodding, Mitch answered. "Actually I've already had breakfast, but I would love some coffee."

"Good, I'll let the girls know that you're here." Jack left for the kitchen.

 Mitchell turned back. "Sorry I didn't get to see you the last time you were here John. You know, you've made quite a name for yourself."

John laughed quietly. "Not quite the name I wanted for myself."

"Here ya go." Jack walked back into the living room carrying a tray of steaming coffee mugs."  He sat on the couch next to John and D'Argo took the chair next to Mitch. Directing his gaze at the manila folder in his friend's hand, he asked. "Are those the papers for the house?"

Mitch took a sip of his coffee before answering. "Yes! The owner accepted your offer and had his agent fax the papers late last night. The house is yours if you want it. Complete the paperwork and we can wire the funds today."

John's eyes widen. "Wait, wired funds? Won't dad's name be attached to that? They'll be able to trace the sale right to him...us...Aeryn!"

Jack shook his head. "No son, the money will be wired from an account in    The Dominican Republic. Different name on the account and cash only deposits makes tracing extremely difficult. Especially since according to my travel history, I've never been to The Dominican Republic."

D'Argo spoke up frowning slightly. "What about the name on the forms? Won't that lead straight to Jack?" Nodding to the manila envelope.

 Mitch smiled understandingly at D'Argo. "Again a different name. Don't worry D'Argo. There are ways to buy property without leading the government to your backdoor."

John eyed his father with a new respect. "Wow dad! Who knew you could keep things on the down low. I'm impressed." John chuckled. "So if the sale did come under suspicion and traced, it would lead no where?"

"You got it! Now here are the papers." He handed the envelope over to Jack who read through them then passed them on to John who did the same then return them to his father.

John frowned slightly at his dad. "Dad?"

"Yeah son?"

"What about your job? What will you do about that?" John asked. He knew how much IASA meant to his father.

Reading his son's thoughts through his eyes, Jack answered truthfully and with pride. "Son, I love IASA and always have, but this...you...Aeryn...the baby...all of you here and on Moya are so much more important. After you left the last time, IASA thought it would be a good idea for me to take a leave of absence. I fought it for the longest; that is until now. I think it's time I took an extended leave of absence."

 Mitch clapped his hands loudly. "Great now once Jack has finished filling out the papers, I'll fax them back complete the deal and Jack and I can fly down, I'll pick up the keys and check everything out. After you and D'Argo leave, Olivia and Aeryn can fly down later and join us "

"Whoa! No, Aeryn can't travel in the public, she'd be recognized." John offered.

D'Argo joined the conversation. "Why don't Doctor South and your father complete their plans and when all is ready we'll simply fly the girls down there."

Mitch frowned. "Won't the atmospheric disturbance alert IASA to your presence?"

D'Argo shook his head. "No, my ship...Lo'La is more advanced than your technology. She could fly all over the planet without detection."

"I agree with D and it would help me sleep tonight."

"Well, now that the preliminary arrangements have been set. When can I meet the new lovely Mrs. Crichton?"

Jack smiled his eyes moving toward the entryway. "Right now! Aeryn, come and meet Dr. South."  The men all stood as the women entered the living room. "Mitch this is Aeryn. Aeryn this is Dr. Mitchell South."

Aeryn smiled cautiously at the man standing next to John's father. "Hello? How are you?"

Mitch stared at the beautiful dark haired woman before him. He couldn't see one hint that gave away the fact that she was not human. "It's nice to finally meet you, congratulations on your marriage and the blessed event."

"Thank you and thank you for all your help including the offer for prenatal care."

Olivia hugged Mitchell. "I have to mirror Aeryn. Thank you so much for helping us."

Mitchell smiled, shaking his head. "No thanks is necessary. Jack and I have been through a hell of a lot! I would walk through the same fire he'd walk through to help me. We're as close as any brothers could be." Mitch glanced around at the faces before him. "Now lets get these papers filled out."




MOYA...


Chiana entered Pilot's den at a dead run. "Pilot we've got to leave this sector now! That's Scorpius' Command Carrier out there. If we wait much longer, it'll be too late! Crichton knows where to find us!"

Rygel followed Chiana, his throne sled moving faster than Pilot had ever seen. "Chiana is correct Pilot, have Moya starburst now. Scorpius has no idea why we're here if he finds out Crichton, D'Argo and Aeryn might as well kiss their eemas goodbye!"

"Rygel! Moya and I are fully aware of the outcome, should Scorpius capture any of us. But she will not be able to starburst for at least a half an arn." Pilot's terse response washed through his den.

Noranti's calm voice called to Pilot. "Pilot have you tried to contact Crichton and D'Argo?"

"No! Scorpius would surely intercept any message sent. We will starburst and meet Crichton and D'Argo as planned." Pilot answered monitoring Moya's progress and the Command Carriers.

Noranti sent up a silent prayer for her comrades. "Fine Pilot do what you must."




SCORPIUS' COMMAMND CARRIER...



Braca rushed into Scorpius' quarters. "Sir, the long range sensors are correct. The leviathan is indeed Moya."

Scorpius glanced up from the report he was perusing. "Are we able to contact them?"

"Not yet sir. We are still at least an arn away." Braca responded.

"Fine, keep me informed of our progress. If the Leviathan makes an attempt to flee, pursue it." Scorpius ordered.

"But sir, what about the delegation? The ships bearing the delegates should arrive in just under a quarter of an arn." Braca asked.

"The last time I checked Captain, we were able to do both." Scorpius dismissed the Captain with a slight wave of his hand. "That'll be all Captain Braca."

"Yes sir!" Braca turned and left the room without further words.

Scorpius stood and walked over to the portal glass, staring out at the darkness of Space. "What are you up to now John? Why are you in this part Space?"

A soft voice spoke from the dark corner of his quarters. "Wormholes...what else. Crichton only cares about one thing. All the time I spent on Moya, I don't think he was ever interested in anything else. The wormholes were an obsession with him."

"No, that wasn't the only thing he cared about. His obsession with wormholes is overcome by his obsessive love for Aeryn Sun. Love...." Scorpius snarled the last word. "A weakness..."

The voice moved closer until it whispered in his ear. "Love? A weakness to most perhaps. But to Criiichton, it was like an armor. He was willing to destroy a planet full of Scarrans for his love. He closed the only pathway to his home world for love." Small pale hands found their way over his shoulders and down his arms. "It seems to have made him stronger, although I still believe his to be a weak species." The soft body that accompanied the voice pressed itself against his back.

"Weak or not John Crichton holds the key in that brilliant mind of his. And I want it!" Scorpius glanced sideways at his companion.

"Well you know his weakness." Came the responsive purr.

Scorpius nodded. "Yes. Aeryn Sun."

"Anyone who manages to hold her, holds the power."

"You never cease to amaze me Sikozu. All your time with Moya's crew and yet still you would betray them all?" Scorpius smiled.

Sikozu shook her head, vibrant red curls swirling around her face. "No not betray. What you hope to accomplish is for the greater good! With the Scarrans moving closer to universal domination, we do not have time for Crichton's emotions! If taking Aeryn Sun into custody will bring John Crichton to heel, then that should be accomplished.

"Hmmm...yes Aeryn Sun, she and I have some unfinished business." Scorpius turned to stare down into the Bioloid's beautiful face. "Our goal is Aeryn Sun as well. She has something I want."

"And that is?" Sikozu asked cupping Scorpius' head between her hands.

"That answer my dear will come later. For now there are other more important things to discuss." He lowered his head to capture her lips.

"I hate to interrupt Scorpius but the delegation has arrived. High Command has also sent its representatives." Came the snide interruption. "Shall we begin this farce?"

"Grayza, you are free to attend this meeting because I requested it of High Command. You are free to enjoy the carrier and all it has to offer, because I have deemed it so. But never presume to enter my quarters without announcement, again."  Scorpius stepped away from Sikozu.

With only a nod and no further words, Grayza turned and left the quarters. Sikozu watched her leave. "Do you trust her?"

"Sikozu, I trust no one." Running his finger down the side of her face. "I trust natural reactions. Grayza and I will never walk the same side and because of this, I trust that she will try her hand at betrayal every chance she gets."

Sikozu grabbed the digit and bit down on its tip. "So you do not trust me?"

"You least of all my dear." Scorpius leaned down to lick her forehead. "But perhaps a bit more than Grayza."

Moya...

Rygel hovered near Pilot's consul. "Are you sure you're reading those sensors correctly?"

"Yes Rygel. The sensors pickup a convoy of ships headed towards the Command Carrier."

Chiana shook her head. "But the Nebari? They have no use for the Peacekeepers. They can't stand them! Why would they be meeting with them."

"Some lintrik oil to calm the air." Noranti squirted fragrant oil in the air. "Perhaps the Peacekeepers are interested in an alliance with the Nebari."

Chiana shook her head vehemently. "No...no...no way! My people would never agree to it! Unless they are setting a trap."

"Or unless the Peacekeepers are holding something over their head." Rygel offered.

"Whatever it is we will not be around to find out! Prepare for starburst." Pilot announced.




SCORPIUS' COMMAND CARRIER...



Scorpius' glance moved slowly around the room as he spoke. "Please make yourselves comfortable."

Tiye K'ahli the head of the Luxan council spoke first. "Why have you brought us all here Scorpius?"

"Yes I would like to know the answer to that myself." The Hynerian Dominar, Bishon spoke harshly, floating about the room on his throne sled.

"Yes...yes. I'm sure you are all wondering why you are here." Scorpius paused to speak to a passing officer, nodding before turning back to Bishon. "Now that our last guest has finally arrived we can begin."

"Begin what? And who is this last guest?" Anjoulis the Ilanic representative asked. Feeling uncomfortable around so many species his people considered hostile.

"I believe that I am the last guest Scorpius is speaking of." Kernig, the Nebari delegate answered, quietly, entering the room followed by his aid.

Scorpius waited until all the representatives were seated around the large black and red table. "You have all been summon..."

"Summoned! I do not answer to summons. I came out of simple curiosity." The offended tone of Queen Novia's voice was heard over the quiet den of discussion.

"Yes, Queen Novia. Of course I...do apologize for my choice of words. I have invited you all here because we are nearing the beginning of Universal Domination."

Tiye K'ahli grunted. "Whose, the Peacekeepers?"

"No the Scarrans." Scorpius answered. "Over the past few cycles they have stepped up their plans to invade our space."

"This is nothing new Scorpius." Bishon spoke. "The Scarrans have long desired to rule this part of space. If not for the peace pact they would have invaded long ago."

"Exactly Dominar. But unfortunately the Scarran Empire is no longer willing to abide by the pact. They are even now seeking the means to destroy us." Scorpius addressed them all from his own seat.

"And what exactly are the means?" Melira the Interon representative spoke finally.

Grayza answered before Scorpius had a chance to. "Weapon actually. The Scarrans are hoping to cultivate the technology of wormholes."

"Wormholes?" Bishon scoffed. "There aren't any in our Space"

"Oh but there could be." Grayza addressed the tiny ruler. She wondered what Scorpius was up to, inviting a Dominar who was near dethroning. "Wormhole technology will allow the user to create wormholes in any space."

"I heard rumors of such, but I have yet to see any proof."  Kernig answered.

"High Command has seen the proof as have the Scarrans." Scorpius took over from Grayza. "They have lost a dreadnaught and a striker to wormholes."

"And just where are these anomalies?" Novia asked still unconvinced.

"They no longer exist." Sikozu spoke quietly.

"Why not?" K'ahli demanded.

"They were destroyed by the one person who could." Sikozu answered.

Grayza glared at the young Kelish. "We have been experimenting with wormhole travel."

"Who is this one person?" Novia watched the byplay between Scorpius and the two women. "And why are they not here?"

Scorpius knew better than to put the Queen off, so he answered her. "Both Sikozu and Grayza are correct. High Command has been allowing me to experiment with wormholes, but there is only one who seems to have naturally mastered wormholes and that is John Crichton."

Novia was the first to speak. "John Crichton! The human?"

Scorpius watched as Novia's face suffused with color. "Yes! The very same John Crichton that visited the Royal Planet two cycles ago."

"You said that the Scarrans lost both a dreadnaught and a striker. Was that the work of John Crichton as well?" Kernig asked. In his opinion the Sebacean Queen could use a cleansing collar.

"Yes! John Crichton is a master of wormholes. I was aboard the Leviathan when he finally unlocked the equation." Sikozu offered.

For the first time Tiye K'ahli noticed Sikozu. "We are to believe you a Kelish? I thought that the Kelish were allies of the Scarrans along with the Charrids. Why are you here?"

"I am not an ally of the Scarrans. We Kelish have no choice as we share their Space."

"Hmmm..." Tiye grunted. "I do not trust the Kelish."

"Nor do I. The Charrids have long tormented my people and anyone who resides on the same side as they do, can only be my enemy." Bishon relayed, his tone becoming hostile as he glared across the table at the young Kelish

"That is why we are all here." Scorpius tried to calm the air. "I propose a pact between our seven worlds. We, the Peacekeepers, the Luxans and the Ilanics, the Nebari, the Hynerians, the Royal Planet, and the Interions will join together to defeat the Scarrans. this pact is for the greater good and it is the only way."

"How can we trust you of all people, not to betray us Scorpius?" Novia asked, the thought of Scarran domination enough to make her think about the pact. "How can we trust that there will be no hidden pitfalls in this so called pact.

"Because the pact will be created by the master peacemakers themselves." Scorpius gestured towards a secret door, which opened to reveal three Arneskan priest and another Interon. "May I introduce, Shyghar, Jurayan, L'oneshir and their Interon guide, Jool Tunai Fenta Hovalis. They will oversee the pact. That is...once you all agree."

Bishon spoke slyly. "And what if we don't agree? What will the Peacekeepers do then?"

"To you Dominar Bishon, nothing at all." Scorpius' voice remained impassive but the chill in the dead eyes was still unsettling to Bishon. He didn't trust the half-breed.
There was something not quite right with all of this.

Scorpius continued, this time addressing all the attendees. "But once the Scarrans invade and mark my words they will. All unprotected worlds will be at their mercy. Do not expect our help for we will not give it!"

"And have you enlisted John Crichton's help? Or will you simply force it from him." Novia asked.

Grayza's smooth voice interrupted. "John Crichton has proven impervious to threats, force or other means of coercion. Her voice dropped towards the end of her speech. Causing Scorpius to eye her knowingly. He was well aware of her other means of coercion. A good day would be the day Grayza was confronted with her indiscretions by an extremely irate Aeryn Sun. He would have to make sure that ex-Peacekeeper found out just how coercive Grayza had been.

"John Crichton holds no love for Peacekeepers. What makes you think he will help?" Novia asked.

"There is one Peacekeeper he loves and he has proven time and again that he will go to the ends of the Universe for her. Officer Aeryn Sun, is a passion he can not deny. She is also the one coercion that he can not refuse. He who holds Aeryn Sun, holds the key to John Crichton's acquiescence." Scorpius smiled.

"How can you be sure?" Kernig asked.

"I'm sure you have all heard rumors about the destruction of Katratzi. That was John Crichton's handiwork. The Scarrans had taken Officer Sun and John Crichton saved her." Scorpius smiled as he watched the awe appear on the Nebari's face. He had use for the Nebari personally, but High Command needed their numbers and their ships as well. "He created a fission bomb and detonated it."

"Why were the Scarrans so interested in Officer Sun. By your words she's a defector. She would have been useless to them. Why transport her to Katratzi?" K'ahli asked.

"For the same reason High Command wants her. She carries John Crichton's child, a child who may possibly hold the key to wormholes. And if my suspicions are correct, Officer Sun may possess the knowledge as well. Either way once we have her, John will come to heel."

"Consider, that without wormholes we can never defeat the Scarrans individually. Together our chances grow and with John Crichton's help we will be victorious." He glanced around at the table's occupants. "Are you willing to join the alliance or would you prefer to take your chances alone?"

"You bring John Crichton to heel and I will add my planet's numbers to your campaign Scorpius." Novia declared. She glanced around the table counting the nods. "As will the rest of the Delegation."

Scorpius nodded his assent and watched as the representatives left to find their quarters.

Grayza sidled up next to Scorpius. "Well Scorpius, it would seem that your plans are heading towards success. That is, if you can get John Crichton to cooperate. And somehow I don't think that will happen."

"Commandant Grayza, remind me again why you are allowed to remain on this carrier, moving freely instead of imprisoned?" Scorpius asked smoothly already knowing the answer.

Grayza's eyes became lavender shards of ice. "Because you requested that High Command allow me to remain."

"Exactly. Be sure to remember that the next time you feel the need to speak." Scorpius stared at the Sebacean, searching for an attraction. He felt nothing, not the painful passion Sikozu's nearness commanded, the dark lust that the Nebari girl, Chiana sometimes brought on or even the powerful hunger Aeryn Sun's mere sent caused. He felt nothing for this woman and he made sure that those sentiments were mirrored in his expression.

Grayza recognized the expression and responded. "I am aware that you are allowing me here, but make no mistake Scorpius, you and I will never be comrades. You are nothing more than a genetic mistake. High Command is simply using your hate to accomplish a goal. They do not respect you, I doubt anyone in High Command likes you."

"Whether they like me or not is irrelevant Commandant.  I will bring about something you could not." Scorpius snarled. "Victory over the Scarrans through wormholes." Scorpius left the room without a backward glance.

Grayza stared after the half-breed. "We shall see who has the victory."




EARTH/ MALDIVES...



"Alright Aeryn, the gel will be a tad cold at first. It won't harm you or the baby in anyway." Dr. South spoke as he began to apply the gel to Aeryn stomach.

"What does it do?" Aeryn asked uncomfortable at the ice-cold feel of the gel.

John answered for the doctor. "It allows helps the doctor and us see the baby, more clearly." He brushed the wisps of hair from her face. He watched the doctor check the gadgets and proceed to find the clearest picture.

"Here we go." The doctor stared at the monitor. "Will you look at that...unbelievable."
John's happy expression turned worried. "What? What is it?"

Aeryn pushed her weight up onto her elbows. "What's the matter?"

"Absolutely nothing. The baby is perfect in every way."

"Well what was all that unbelievable bit about?" John asked, still unconvinced.

Mitchell answered, staring at Aeryn. "Your child's development is amazing. You are now in your twentieth week. The test done on you when you visited Earth the first time, show an extraordinary resemblance both physically and genetically to humans."

Aeryn nodded her head. "Un huh, so?"

"Don't keep us waiting here doc." John grasped Aeryn's hand.

"No nothings wrong I think I just expected this pregnancy to resemble that of a human's. The child's development is consistent with that of a twenty-eight week old fetus."

"How is that possible?" John glanced down at Aeryn, who shrugged, shaking her head in bewilderment.

"As far as I know the baby is as normal as any other Sebacean fetus. At least that's what I was told on the Command Carrier." Aeryn answered.

Mitch broke in. "No let me explain a bit more. While the child's development is at twenty-eight weeks. The amniotic fluid I took a sample of dates the pregnancy at around twenty weeks. I can only assume that this is normal for you Aeryn, but it is still amazing." He smiled suddenly "Would you like to have a look at your baby?"

Aeryn and John both answered in unison. "Yes!"

Mitchell moved away from the state of the art view screen. John and Aeryn both stared the colored shadows that outlined their child perfectly. Aeryn speechless and John utterly amazed.

John's choked voice broke as he spoke. "Oh...my...god. Look at him. He's absolutely beautiful."

Aeryn smiled and reached for John's hand. "she's beautiful. Are you happy?"

"Lord...baby I couldn't be happier." He kissed her passionately on the lips. "Look he's sucking his thumb! That's my boy! Learn to pacify yourself early, because women love holdin out!" He whispered to Aeryn's stomach. "It's a girl thing. I'll clue you in when you get here son."

"I keep telling you it's a girl." Aeryn laughed. Bringing John's hand to her lips. She kissed each finger gently

Mitchell cleared his throat. "I believe that's how this one got started." He gestured toward the screen. "I can give you are picture if you'd like and I can also tell you the sex. Do you want to know?" He pressed a button to save the picture.

Both John and Aeryn shook their heads. "No!"

John finished up. "We have sort of a side bet going."

Mitchell nodded and walked towards the door. "I'll leave you three alone."

Aeryn stared at the baby on the screen, tears gathering in her eyes. In all her years as a Peacekeeper, she had never been prepared for the over-whelming emotions she was feeling at the moment. "I would have never thought this possible...a baby. What are we going to do with a baby?"

"Love it, the way we love each other." He played with the free strands of her hair. "We'll find a UT preschool...or maybe Tormented Space. Yeah my kid is liable to torment anything breathing. He'll go to a nice private military academy run by ex-Peacekeepers. Then we swing by Earth and drop him off in time to register for Harvard."

"You've got it all worked out have you?" Aeryn chuckled. Oh how she adored this man. "What if she wants to join the Space Program?"

"Hey anything's possible." Taking Kleenex from the box beside the monitor, he gently cleaned the gel from her stomach. "This is baby Crichton we're talking about."

Aeryn allowed John to help her sit up. "A fact that I'm reminded of every time I eat something baby Crichton doesn't like." She wrapped her arms around his neck. "I love you."  

"I love you too babe. A wormhole...who knew? One trip and my life changed forever. And I wouldn't have it any other way." He began to mimic a teen. "Uhh dad...like I fell through this...like blue hole...and there's this hot babe! She kicks ass like Xena and looks like a Sports Illustrated cover girl. So anyway, she's not from around here. Can I keep her? She's definitely the one." He finished on a kiss.

Aeryn return the kiss, mimicking her own teen years. "Sir, I'd like to resign my post as Prowler Pilot. I came in contact with a very handsome unidentified life form. He's quite intelligent but he does talk a lot. He claims to be human from the planet...Earp...Earth. He says that he came through a blue hole and that he wants to keep me. Can he sir? He's definitely the one." She ended with another kiss.


~~~~~~~~~~


Aeryn nuzzled John's neck. Her slight movement caused the two-person hammock to sway gently. "Hmmm...I wish we could simply stay here. No one knows us here, no one cares."

John ran his fingers through Aeryn hair. Olivia had helped her cut it to just below her shoulder blades. With the excess weight removed the dark strands fell into a natural wave. He had Olivia to thank for a few things. Aeryn's new wardrobe was softer, more becoming. He missed his leather bound warrior babe, but he loved his new home grown Earth Mother. Olivia had left nothing to chance, Aeryn now had shoes for every occasion, his favorite, the flat sandals that caressed her feet.

Olivia even had one of the women from the island come in give Aeryn a manicure and pedicure and while Aeryn had fought the new, more feminine trappings in front of he and the rest, privately he'd caught her admiring her coral tipped nails and toes with admiration. Maybe...just maybe Aeryn could fit in, but could he? No and he doubted Aeryn could for long. She was okay with the new look for now. But if he knew his baby...and he did, she would be bored within months returning to what she knew best; the daily routine of the military.    

His fingers continued their tribute, running down the curve of her body, finding the single clasp that held her sheer blouse closed. Nuzzling the shell of ear he cupped her full breast, teasing the tender nipple. They were becoming heavier with the progression of her pregnancy. He loved the changes in her body. The thought that his child was the cause for such a wondrous transformation was more than a little overwhelming. A sigh escaped his lips.

Aeryn glanced up. "What is it?" Their time was so limited. John and D'Argo would be leaving tomorrow and Aeryn wanted to spend as much time with John as possible. She didn't want him upset. She reached up to cup his smooth jaw. They'd been on the island for five days and John had decided to grow a beard. While Aeryn found that she liked the rough feel of it against her skin, John said it itched and so he'd shaved it off. But she still carried the whisker burns in several private areas. She would miss him so much.

"Nothing. Just thinking." John's fingers continued their trail of delight.

"No. I can tell when something is bother...ahhhh...both...bothering you." The fire streaking from Aeryn's captured nipple caused her body to move on its own accord seeking more. "Wha...what is it?" she whispered, her soft breath branding the sensitive skin of his neck.

"I don't want to leave you. Your body is changing and I'm going to miss that. I'm going to miss waking up next to you, loving you in the morning, fighting with you in the afternoon and making up at night. You are part me now Aeryn, you have been for a long time and I don't know if I'll survive the separation honey."

"We've been separated before and survived it....barely but we did survive it." Aeryn's voice was flavored with a hint of the trepidation she was feeling. She wanted to be strong for him.

"Yeah, but this time, the stakes are doubled. Oh! I still believe that Earth is the best place  for you. But that doesn't mean I have to like it." He looked down into her gray blue eyes. "I love you so much."

"And I love you, but I have come to accept that if you're continuously worried about me and the baby, you won't be able to defeat the Scarrans. John?"  Her hand captured his manipulating fingers.

"Hmm?"

"Are you sure, you don't want to accept Scorpius' offer of help?" Aeryn asked quietly. She already knew the answer, but felt the question should be put to him again.

John was quite adamant in his response. "No! No way...there is no way I would join forces with Skeletor! The minute the tide changes he'd have us all strapped into his latest torture device and Earth would be up for grabs!"

"I agree, Scorpius can not be trusted! But...!" she struggled to sit up and jump down from the hammock.

Still arguing, John followed suit. "No Aeryn! Absolutely not!"

Aeryn chopped at the air silencing John's next words. "Will you listen for once! Everything has to be your way doesn't it? We may hate Scorpius but we share a common goal, victory over the Scarrans!"

"Aeryn!" John's lips pressed tightly together, trying to stop the flow of angry words.

Aeryn stop suddenly smiling. "There, will that argument keep you until you get back?"

The light of understanding covered John's face. "You....only if we can spend the night making up."  He moved towards her slowly.

Smiling Aeryn met him halfway. "I can do you one better. Why don't we spend the afternoon making up and spend the night making love."

"Now that's my girl! Why are your plans always better than mine?"

"Simple, I'm superior." She laughed, wrapping her arms around his waist.

"Why? Because you're Sebacean?" John caressed her face.

"No." Blinking guilelessly, she answered. "Because I'm a woman." She grabbed his head and brought it down for a kiss.

"Thank god for woman." John murmured seconds before capturing her lips.



~~~~~~~~~~



Jack walked up behind his youngest child, who stood staring out at the beach. "Hey! What cha lookin at?"

Olivia smiled sparing her father a quick over the shoulder glance. "John and Aeryn. They've been out there for hours."

"Hmm...they seemed to love that hammock." Jack's eyes followed his daughter's.

"Dad, have you ever seen John so happy?" Olivia looked away from the embracing couple. "She...Aeryn does that."

Jack nodded. "Yes she does. He's complete now. Your brother has found his other half. You'll see, it'll happen to you too."

Smiling Olivia turned and hugged her dad. "And what if I find a handsome Sebacean man who makes me happy?"

"Then Susan would be very unhappy." Jack answered.

"Why? Because she doesn't like aliens?" Olivia sniped.

"No, because then she'd have to book the a Space shuttle for Thanksgiving. I'll be with you and your brother." He kissed the top of her head. "I think John likes the new Aeryn. You did a wonderful job with her makeover kid."

"It was easy. Aeryn was already beautiful. A few accents and her look went from beautiful to extraordinary."

"Yeah well, even I had to look twice and remember that she's my daughter now. Wow! When that boy picks em' he picks the best!" Jack whistled in appreciation.

"Just think, everyone thought all aliens were short and green." Olivia laughed." Rygel was a close second!"

"Where's D'Argo?" Jack asked.

"Uhh...I think he said something about fishing. But he didn't have a rod." Olivia shrugged.

"Fishing...D'Argo?" Jack asked in wonder.


~~~~~~~~~


"You can not hide down there forever!" D'Argo stared down at the dark shapes moving beneath the aqua blue waves of the Indian Ocean. "Who ever came up with this idea should be tortured by Noranti."

"I don't care what John says. This is not relaxing." D'Argo stared around at the pristine water. "Go fishing it'll relax you, he says." D'Argo mimicked John. "Choose a clear day and the fish will practically jump into the boat, he says." He stood up suddenly in the small boat, hands on his hips. "Well I don't see them jumping!" D'Argo grabbed his Qualta blade and took aim. "Oh I know how to get you into the boat!"


~~~~~~~~~


Aeryn turned her head towards the water and D'Argo's voice. "What on Earth is D'Argo doing?"

John's gaze followed Aeryn's toward D'Argo's lone figure standing in a small boat, with his Qualta blade aimed at the water. "What in the hell!!!" He ran towards the water, yelling. "D'ARGO! D'ARGO!!"

D'Argo's head jerked up at the sound of John's voice. "WHAT?!!!" He put the Qualta blade down and continued to yell at John. "AM I SUPPOSE TO BE ABLE TO HEAR YOU?"

"PUT THE BLADE DOWN!!!!!" John yelled back, waving his hands.

D'Argo gestured to his ears. "I CAN'T HEAR YOU! YOU FRELLNICK!!!" Sighing, he turned the boat on and steered it back towards the private dock.

John met D'Argo at the dock. "D! You can not shoot fish!"

D'Argo growled. "WHY NOT!"

"I...You just can't! That's not how we fish." John's voice took on the sound of a harassed preschool teacher's. "We need to use a fishing rod."

D'Argo stared at John for a moment. "Dead is dead! Why does it matter how the fish got that way?"

"Because fishing is a sport! You catch them, and then throw them back! Sometimes you take em' home and fry em'! But we do not shoot em'!"

Growling, D'Argo stormed away.  John laughed out loud, watching his friend. "Oh yeah, it's definitely time to get Mufasa off of this planet!"



SCORPIUS' COMMAND CARRIER...



Captain Braca approached Scorpius. "Sir, we have been unable to locate the leviathan. We were almost within range of Moya but she starburst and we have not been successful in detecting her."

Scorpius turned to Braca. "Braca, do you realize the importance of finding that Leviathan? John Crichton is on that Leviathan." Scorpius moved closer to Braca. "Do you know what's at stake?"

Braca shook his head. "Yes sir!"

"Alliance participation is at hand! Without John Crichton, there will be no alliance. If there is no alliance, then the Scarrans will destroy us all! I will not allow that to happen,  SO FIND JOHN CRICHTON!!!"

"Yes sir!" Braca rushed from the room.

Scorpius watched Braca's retreating form. "They're all fools!"



EARTH/ MALDIVES...



Silvery threads of moonlight shimmered into the dark room. The tropical night breeze wafted through the open balcony doors enveloping the two lovers in its fragrant embrace.

John's lips worked their way down Aeryn's torso. Using his tongue to trace the swell of her breast. "Soon these will be off limits to me. Unless my little buddy here is willing to share." He captured one nipple between his teeth, teasing roughly before soothing the tortured bead. "Junior is definitely gonna have to share." He kissed the swell of his child, laid his head upon the taut mound and began speaking gently to baby. "Hey little guy. You know what? Daddy has to go on a little trip. While I'm away, I'll need you to be on your best behavior. Watch over mommy and stay put until daddy gets back from beating up those big bad ugly Scarrans.  Daddy's got to make the universe a better place." He listened to the baby's delicate movements. "Right now kid, mommy's about to give daddy the best good bye he's ever had. That's another thing we'll discuss when you're older."

"And do you think that the baby understood all of that?" She asked, chuckling softly.

"But of course. This is a Crichton baby. While still in the womb we are aware of everything. This kids a born genius." John lowered his lips to Aeryn's stomach once more, but this time his tongue did the exploring. Carefully tracing her navel. "I could always make you jump." He punctuated each word with a dip of his tongue, watching her stomach muscles jump.

Aeryn sighed. "Keep that up and junior will take over this little moment. The last time you did that, the baby kept me up all night." Her fingers found their way into the thick strands of his hair, contradicting her own words by pulling him closer. Her body arched off the bed as his tongue found paradise. "Oh I do...love you John Crichton."

"I love you too babe." John's lips continued their torment.


~~~~~~~~~~~


Jack found D'Argo sitting outside by the pool.

"D'Argo? What are you doing out here" Jack asked, sitting down in neighboring deck chair.

"I was just taking a last look at your night sky." D'Argo responded still looking up at the sky.

"The stars are definitely more noticeable here, they're beautiful." Jack responded.

"They are like Mackzelion jewels. I'll miss them." D'Argo smiled lightly.

"That's not all, I'll bet." Jack added knowingly. "You'll miss Aeryn won't you? I get the feeling you don't think that leaving Aeryn here is such a good idea."

"I just worry that with us so far away...if Aeryn needs us...we won't be there." D'Argo revealed a bit of his inner turmoil.

"Tell you what D'Argo. "You watch my son's back and I'll make sure Aeryn's safe. She knows where to go incase of an emergency. You and John have the address. If we're not here when you get back, go straight to the address." Jack spoke quietly. They had worked out an emergency plan, which he prayed to God that they would never have to use.

"I give you my word sir. I will guard John with my life." D'Argo felt that Jack needed to hear more. "John has been a good friend to me. We have been through quite a bit in the last five cycles....years. But no matter what he has always been there for me. You can be proud of the man he has become. To some he is a hero, to me he is a brother."

Jack reached over to pat D'Argo's shoulder. "Thank you D'Argo, I needed to hear that. It's a memorable day, when a man finds out that his son has become his own man...a man of integrity and compassion." He looked at D'Argo smiling. "Good luck on your journey son. I'm not only proud of John, I'm proud of you too. You've overcome a lot."

For the first time in a long while D'Argo felt the doors to his soul begin to open.


~~~~~~~~


John watch the wormhole close behind Lo'La. He felt the tug on his heartstrings. The distance from Aeryn, causing his heart to constrict. "God please watch over her."

"John! There's no sign of Moya. She should be here." D'Argo read Lo'La's sensors. Finding no readings that would lead them to Moya.

"Forget it D! The gang got spooked by something that shouldn't have been here." John set a course for the rendezvous point. "Lets go find them and find out what it was."



~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~



Aeryn stared up at the sky. She couldn't shake the feeling that something was happening...something was coming. Whatever it was, she prayed that John would return unharmed with his mind intact. Surrounded by the tropical beauty that was her home and family that loved her, she never felt so alone. "Please hurry and come home, John we need you." She caressed her stomach as she spoke.


SCORPIUS' COMMAND CARRIER...



"What was Moya doing in that part of space?" Scorpius spoke to himself, walking through John's movements. "What are you up to John? I know you haven't given up on wormholes, you've collapsed the wormhole that leads to your home, and you can't run from the Scarrans forever. So what were you doing there?"

Scorpius stared out at the blackness of Space. "What were you doing John, creating more wormholes?" After a moment his mind hit on a thought, smiling he tapped his comms. "Captain Braca!"

Braca's reply came over the comms. "Yes sir?"

"Turn the carrier around and set a course for the sector we just departed in our pursuit of the Leviathan."

"Yes sir!"

TO BE CONTINUED