Title: Destiny's Light Author: mercury_999 Rating: R for sexual material and violence Spoilers: Oh dear. Let's see, if you're a faithful-phile then nothing should spoil you. If you're new at the world of XF... basically this covers all the Myth Arc has led up to. Major spoilers are End Game/Colony, Memento Mori, Christmas Carol/Emily, Patient X/The Red and the Black, The End, The Beginning, Fight The Future, Two Fathers/One Son, and Requiem. Minor spoilers to Terma/Tunguska, Sein Und Zeit/Closure. We have it all *g*. Category: Colonization Fic; Character Death; Romance; Angst Disclaimer: I don't own them, but I wish I did! Don't we all... Distribution: Sure! Just let me know, and keep my name and address attached. Summary: The end is finally upon them, and Scully and Mulder fight to survive the dark world that the Colonists have created. Author's Notes: Where to start? As always thanks to Frohike for editing... she's my savior and unfortunately... she knows it. *g*. Thanks to Kristen, who's ideas helped me continue with this! And Ally... thanks for the *wonderful* picture and the title! I could have never written this without the two of you! The gang at Philing 21st Century for some of those chats, they helped me through those writers blocks, and X Philes Fan Club for the ideas; I love you all. More Notes: This fic uses all of the Myth Arc so far, right up to Requiem. Or I should rephrase that. This is not a post-ep, and in this fic Scully isn't pregnant, Mulder isn't abducted, CSM isn't in that deathly state, they didn't have another case in Bellefleur, Oregon. :) BUT (always a but) Mulder and Scully are involved (take it from where you want, all things, Hollywood AD, Je Souhaite seem to be the favorites!) And one more thing.... all the driving time is completely estimated, cause I don't live in the US and I have no idea what the roads are like and how long it really takes to drive the distance! Stick with me, people!! Feedback: As Mulder would say "Bring it on" [mercury_999@hotmail.com] Dedication: For Marissa. :) The one who finally brought me to write this. XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX May 14, 2000 3:27 a.m. Scully kicked the last of the blankets off of her bed. She flopped onto her back and sighed. The unusually warm May left the nights hot and humid. Mulder's hand moved over her hip, then stilled, as Scully realized he was still asleep. She was careful not to wake him, as she rolled over in his arms to face the window. The curtains fluttered gently in the warm breeze that filled the room. Using the back of her hand, she wiped the perspiration from her forehead, then settled back down beside Mulder. Just as her eyelids began to get heavy, a bright white light filled the room from the window. Then blood-chilling screams filled the air. Scully and Mulder sat bolt right in bed, Mulder wrapped his arm around Scully. Her heart pounding and her breath coming in gasps. She wondered what the Hell was going on. The white light was so intense she could barely make out the furniture in the bedroom. "Scully?" Mulder's voice was hoarse; she could feel his arms tightening around her body. "Mulder-" she started, but couldn't finish. Thinking of Samantha, he shook his head. "It wasn't like this...." "What's happening?" Her voice could barely be heard over the distant screams. The light was starting to warm their bodies even more. Mulder slid out of the bed. "Stay here," he commanded, and Scully hesitantly obeyed. His hand rested on her gun that was sitting on the bedside table and he clutched it in his sweaty palm. Creeping to the window, he drew back the curtains an inch. "Oh God," he whispered, staring at the scene before him. "What?" Scully asked, nervously holding the bed sheet she had recently kicked off. "They've come." Scully stumbled out of the bed and met him at the window. 'Mulder' was forming on her lips, as she peered out the window at the blinding light. The light was coming from above the city; people were emerging from various buildings on the street, then erupting into flames. Scully gripped Mulder's arm, and began to tremble. "I saw this. On the bridge. With Cassandra." Was all she managed to say before her knees grew weak and she fell against him. "Scully? Scully!!" Mulder shouted, cradling her body against him. Her breath was slow, but her heart was racing. He laid her on the bed, as the light began to fade. The screams were almost silent, just a few lingering in the air. The light disappeared as quick as it came, and Scully opened her eyes. "Mulder?" She asked, trying to sit up. Dizziness overcame her and she collapsed on the bed. "You've seen this before?" he whimpered, holding her against him. She nodded. "When I was with Cassandra, we were on some bridge. Then this space ship came, and all of the others... the ones without the faces, I think, were burning us. Then the other ship came and burned them with this fire wand thing from the space ship. Then I don't remember anything." "Mass abductions signify the beginning of colonization," he said. "We have to get out of here. We can't become infected, you were vaccinated with the vaccine in Antarctica, and I was given it at a Russian testing facility. Can you get dressed?" She pushed away from him. "Yeah, I think so. Things are a little fuzzy around the edges, but not too bad." She stepped toward the dresser and starting to dress. "Where are we going?" A quiet knock on the door accented her question. It was just past 3 a.m., and the world was quiet yet again. Mulder grabbed the gun again, and went to answer the door. Scully listened from the bedroom, with her attempt to make herself look decent. She heard low voices; Mulder was talking to someone. She threw on a t-shirt and jeans and moved into the living room where Marita Covarubias was sitting. Before Scully could ask what was going on, she started speaking. "Agent's Mulder and Scully, I've come to warn you," Marita said "Of what?" Scully asked suspiciously. "The Colonists... the bright light you saw. They're here." Her words were crisp and her tone dead serious. "They've come? Just now?" Mulder asked. Marita nodded. "The date was set.... supposedly 15 years from 1998, but that was cut short because of your visit to Antarctica. When you gave Scully the vaccine, it infected all of the aliens on the ship, causing them to break free of their human hosts, letting the Colonists know that we have a means to protect ourselves from them. All along we had been stalling the Colonization, creating that vaccine you used. It was a way to remove the oil from humans, and prevent it from infecting them. Little did we know that they were using us all along. There was one stage in the alien gestation that went unknown to us. We call it the Mutation. It is a ferocious and instinctive alien that gestates out of the torso of the infected human. I believe you are familiar with this, a case assigned to Spender and Fowley right after the Antarctica incident. The gestation was a surprise to us all, but only happens with high temperature." "So they were working with them all along, to save themselves," Mulder said, his tone bitter. He sat down on the couch. "They were the first creatures on the planet, but most left before the Ice Age. The others remained dormant underground for millions of years, in the stage we call Purity, the thick oil substance. Then we learned that after a person is infected, and the mutation occurs, the mutation can easily reproduce, infecting entire populations with the alien virus." "The Syndicate was helping the Colonists in many ways. They were working together on a project called The Method, to create hybrids from human and alien DNA, who would be immune to the black oil. The humans used in this experiment were the ones who were brought by The Project. The Colonists gave the Syndicate an embryo of a grey alien, so the hybrids could be created. The deal with the aliens was: when the perfect hybrid was created, it would be given to the aliens, the embryo would be returned, and in return the Syndicate would see the children they gave up for The Project again, and be given the genes of the perfect hybrid, so they would survive colonization." Marita sighed. "But the Rebels beat them and killed most of the members of the Syndicate, stole the embryo, and took or even killed the perfect hybrid, Cassandra Spender. "Tonight, there was a mass abduction. Some of the multiple abductees through the years were taken, for what we believe to be, the final preparations of colonization. I cannot tell you whether people were infected with Purity tonight, but we will know very soon. The only physical sign that a person has been infected is the oil swimming over the person's eyes. "We don't know what is going to happen. They've taken advantage of us and started to create their own hybrids using abductees. They, and anyone else immune to the black oil, will become the slave race after colonization. There are only a few of us who are immune, the living members of the Syndicate, myself, Krycek, C.G.B. Spender, Strughold, the Tunguska test subjects." She looked at Mulder and Scully. "The two of you are also immune to the oil. There is no escape from the Colonists. We fear that this newest generation will have developed the means to adapt to the cold climate in the north, taking away our last safe environment." Scully looked at Mulder in disbelief. Mulder closed his eyes and tilted his head back. "I'm not telling you this because I want to; I'm telling you this because you need to know. It's all over. They win," she said, standing up. "My time with you is up, the remaining members of the Syndicate are taking cover in the colder areas of the world, and I would recommend that you do so as well." Then she was gone. Scully crept over to where Mulder was slumped in his chair and put a hand on his arm. "It's so unbelievable," she whispered, lowering her lips to his ear. He didn't answer. Instead he wrapped his arms around her waist, then gently pulled her onto his lap. Mulder held her against him without speaking, burying his face in her hair. Scully moved her hands up his arms, and slid them down his back. "What are we going to do?" She tried again. Silence. Scully bit her lip. "I'm scared, Mulder," she whimpered. His head lifted and he stared at her. "I'm scared, too." He traced the outline of her face with his fingers. "But after all we've been through, we have to fight. We have to.... go North." Scully nodded. Mulder stood up, carrying Scully in his arms to their bedroom, then placing her on her feet in front of the dresser. "We might be gone a very long time," he said, pulling a suitcase from the closet. XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX 6:49 a.m. "Oh my God, Mulder look at the news!" Scully yelled from their living room. Mulder ran from the kitchen with his eyes glued to the screen. The television projected pictures of infected humans, with black oil swimming over their eyes. "That's not possible... it's too soon for people to be infected," Mulder started. "They are infected and that means that they can gestate soon. God, Mulder, we have to go now!" He picked up the suitcase and Scully grabbed their jackets as they fled from the future. XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX 9:12 a.m. After fighting the backed up traffic in the city, they finally pulled onto the Interstate. The road was full of cars, the honking of horns was repeating over and over again in their heads. No one could stop what was happening, and people were on the brink of sanity. The laws couldn't hold anyone back, as the traffic raced down the freeway. "Mulder be careful," Scully murmured as they went around a corner at a fast speed. He removed his right hand from the steering wheel and placed it over Scully's. So far it had been a hard trip, Scully had wanted to pick up her mother, but Mulder told her that no one who hadn't been vaccinated could come. He felt a dull pain in his temple as he replayed the conversation. 'Scully we can't. Believe me, if there was one person we could take with us, it would be your mother-' 'Mulder! You can't tell me what to do. I can't just leave her here... to die.' 'What would happen if she came with us, and somehow got infected? It would be suicide.' 'You...Bastard. I need her, Mulder. I won't stand around and let them kill her.' He remembered Scully starting to cry then, turning as far away from him as the seat belt had allowed her to. He had tried to comfort her, but she didn't want his comfort. He offered her the cell phone to say good bye and Scully angrily spat at him that calling would be even worse. So they sat in silence, Mulder driving in and out of lanes trying to get out of the city, while Scully stared blankly out the window. Pulling himself out of his memories, he glanced at Scully. This time she was looking at him. "You're all I have, Scully. I can't lose you," he said softly. "Keep your eyes on the road, Mulder. I'm not going anywhere," she leaned over and kissed his cheek. He rested his hand on her thigh, as she settled back into her seat. They had agreed to drive shifts, with him starting and switching every three hours. He didn't know what to talk about, nothing seemed appropriate. They couldn't talk about anyone, or anything that they were leaving behind. And their relationship didn't seem right to talk about at a time like this. They couldn't have a 'good time' when they were both scared to death of what was happening around them. So they sat in silence, his hand on her thigh, until she forced him to allow her to take her shift driving. Then their places had been switched, she was the one reaching to him, their fingers entwined. XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX May 16, 2000 2:37 a.m. On the second day of driving they began to relax. Between both of them, they had driven all through the night, as traffic thinned. The Interstate had only a few cars traveling on it. They stopped for gas often, each time restocking their food supplies and taking a pit stop. Then they got back in their car and headed north with more determination then before. But after almost two days of driving both were exhausted. Mulder struggled to keep his eyes open and his focus on the road. Scully was still awake, he hadn't seen her sleep yet, and he hadn't slept either. "Mulder," Scully said softly. "Pull over." "We have to keep going," he said tensely. She shook her head. "No we don't. It's not going to do us any good to get in an accident." She touched his arm softly. "We haven't slept in two days." "I won't get us into an accident." "Mulder, please. I need you. Stop for the night," she whispered, brushing her fingers against his arm. He sighed and pulled onto the shoulder of the road. "Come here." He slid his lanky frame into the back seat and held his arms out for her. She accepted the invitation and crawled into the back seat with him. "You're shaking," he whispered, untucking her shirt. She brought her hand to the back of his head. Taking a deep breath she murmured, "I need you, Mulder." He kissed her softly, sliding one of his hands over her hip. She pulled away to clarify what she meant, but he placed his finger from his other hand against her lips. "I know what you meant," he said softly. The hand that was resting on her hip pulled her t-shirt up, over her head. He lifted his body off of the seat, and unclasped her bra. She shrugged out of it, and peeled Mulder's shirt off him. He unbuttoned and unzipped her jeans, then slid both her jeans and panties down to mid thigh. Scully straightened her legs, kicking the clothes off. Her fingers unfastened his jeans, then together they managed to shed Mulder's boxers and jeans in the small back seat of the car. He kissed her gently, as he laid her back down on the seat. Her arms slid across his body in quick, seducing movements. She parted her legs, as she pulled him down on top of her. Mulder cupped her breast with one hand, thumbing the erect nipple. Her kisses deepened with desire, as he caressed her body, while moving his other hand down to her core. He rubbed her clit, then entered her with his finger. She moaned into his mouth, grinding her hips against his finger. He moved it in and out of her, then added another finger inside her slick opening. Scully parted her legs more, urging him on. Her hand moved down to his erection, cupping him tightly in the palm of her hand. She massaged him with her fingertips, receiving a moan in return. He quickened the rhythm of his fingers inside her, and she moved her hips sharply. "God.... Mulllllder," she moaned, closing her eyes and gripping his shoulder with her other hand. "I'm going to..." Mulder pulled his fingers out of her, and positioned himself between her legs. She guided his cock inside her, then brought her hands to his back. He thrust into her, as Scully moaned again. She wrapped her legs around his waist and felt one of Mulder's hands cup her ass and press her harder against him. The other slid over her stomach, reaching its final destination between them. He traced circles around her clit; Scully arched her back and climaxed. Her body trembled as the waves of passion came over her, and with a final thrust, Mulder came inside her, calling out her name. Once his orgasm was over, he pulled out of her. Scully smiled sleepily, as he repositioned their bodies so they could lay as comfortable as possible. Mulder was stretched out along the seat and Scully was sprawled on top of him. She rolled onto her stomach, lazily stretching a leg over his hip. Mulder saw Scully close her eyes as her head rested against his shoulder; he smiled, closing his eyes. XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX May 16, 2000 5:03 a.m. Mulder pulled Scully closer as he tried to erase the images of the past few days from of his mind. The first day of their escapade they learned that spaceships had been sighted over ten other major cities of the US and dozens more throughout the world. It really was over and sometimes he wondered why they even tried. Scully rolled against him, resting her head on his shoulder. With one hand he pulled the comforter up higher over her bare shoulders. He knew they would have to get up soon and keep going. He wanted her to sleep more, so he tried to carefully roll her onto the back seat without waking her and wrapped the comforter around her to keep her warm. The air inside the car was warm, and Mulder awkwardly pulled on his boxers, jeans and t-shirt before climbing into the driver's seat. He pulled back onto the Interstate and saw how empty it looked, compared to the past few days. There were only a dozen cars in sight, which wasn't much compared to the packed lanes and bumper-to-bumper traffic they were used to. The sun had yet to come up and he determined that they were somewhere in New York State. Mulder adjusted the rear view mirror so he could see Scully laying across the backseat. She was exhausted. The emotional and physical drain from the past two days had really gotten to her. A motorist came up behind them quickly and passed leaving only inches to spare, then cut off in front of him. The President had declared a National Disaster, allowing Federal Emergency Management Agency to take over, but it didn't matter anymore. Dawn was breaking over the rustic hills, breaking through the mist that blanketed the countryside. The mailboxes grew further apart as Mulder kept driving. He had to make it. Nothing else mattered to him anymore, except Scully. He glanced back at her sleeping form again and smiled. He was getting hungry, but he decided to wait until Scully woke before stopping to get some breakfast. And by the looks of the land, there wasn't going to be a gas station any time soon. The edges of the road were bordered with thick evergreen trees, only dotted with a few houses. Out of the corner of his eye Mulder saw the headlights coming at him from a road on the passenger side. Mulder didn't have time to swerve or even cry out as the older car hit his car with such an impact that it sent both vehicles across the two-lane highway, and into the ditch on the other side. Metal and glass shattered as the hood of the car punctured the passenger door of Mulder's car; air bags flew open, as Mulder tried to lift his hands to shield his face from the glass. When all was finally still, Mulder opened his eyes. It took him a moment to realize what had happened, then he looked around the remains of his car. The other vehicle had become dislodged from his on the way down the bank, and his car had rolled onto its side. Mulder tried to unbuckle his seat belt and felt shooting pain up his left arm. Gritting his teeth he tried again, this time groaning in pain, but completing the task. He was pinned against the door by the steering wheel and what was left of the air bags. He maneuvered slowly, seeing a gaping hole in the windshield that he could crawl out of. The glass splinters tore his clothing, and cut into him as he slid over the dashboard and onto the hood of the car. He stood up and looked at the wreck, then his heart dropped into his stomach when he remembered Scully sleeping in the backseat. He ran around to the back of the car calling to her, but he didn't get any response. Finally, with no other choices, he grabbed a rock and smashed the rear window of the car. "Scully?" He called, pushing the glass aside and leaning into the back seat. Her head had been on the driver's side, saving her life. He shuddered to think of what might have happened if she had been sitting in the passenger seat. The blanket had managed to shield her from most of the glass, except for the large scrape on her face. He leaned further into the car, ignoring the pain in his arm and felt for her pulse. It was there, but awfully slow. "Scully?" He asked again, pinching her shoulders. She stirred slightly, moaning in pain. He repeated her name, until she slowly opened her eyes. "Mulder?" she asked, wincing. "I'm going to get you out of there," he promised, moving his right hand to her waist. "My feet are stuck," she murmured, looking at the bent metal close to where the hood of the other car had entered the passenger door. "Hold on," he grunted, pulling the blanket over her head. He grabbed the rock and shattered the rest of the window. He removed the blanket from her face and concentrated on freeing her feet. "What happened?" she asked, then cried out as Mulder pushed the part of the door away from one of her feet. He didn't answer, only bit his lip at an effort to keep from hurting her. He couldn't move the metal frame of the car by himself. "Scully you are going to have to try and pull your foot out," he instructed. The blanket was still wrapped around her feet, so Mulder hoped that it would help cushion her foot in the tight squeeze. "On three... One... Two... Three!" He put the last of his strength into pushing the frame up 1/2 inch and Scully screamed as she pulled her foot through. As soon as she was free, Mulder tore the blankets from her feet, inspecting the damages. The metal hadn't broken the skin, but one of her ankles was badly bruised. It was already turning a light shade of purple. He rubbed her foot trying to get the circulation back as Scully closed her eyes and took deep breaths. "Come on Scully. Let's get you out of this car," Mulder said, leaning into it once more and wrapping his right arm around her waist, while his left cradled her upper body against him. He lifted her carefully, but the blanket was stuck, confining her within the thick material. "I'm going to have to cut you out," he said, popping the trunk to reveal their suitcase and a toolbox. He pulled out both items, then shut the trunk. The toolbox contained a small jack knife, and he cut the protesting comforter off Scully. The cool air hit her naked skin and she began to shiver. As soon as Mulder finished, she wrapped her arms around his neck and waited for him to lift her out. Cradling her against him, so she wouldn't get cut by the glass, he carefully guided her out of the backseat. Then he opened the suitcase and helped her get dressed. "Mulder... your arm," she noticed, as he dug through the suitcase. "I landed on it when we hit. I'm fine," he said, pulling out a sweat suit for Scully to wear. "You're hurt, let me see your arm," Scully said, putting her hand carefully on his sore arm. Mulder pulled the sweatshirt over her head, and guided the pants over her ankles. Once Scully was dressed, he sat down. "Can you take off your shirt?" she asked. "Are you making a pass at me, Agent Scully?" Mulder smirked. "Don't get your hopes up until I can see the arm," she said. "Yes ma'am," Mulder replied and the two of them struggled to get him out of the shirt. "You're lucky you can move your arm," she said softly. Hand me that scarf." Scully made a makeshift sling with it in hopes of restraining Mulder from using his arm. "What happened?" she asked, glancing at the other car. "They pulled out and hit us, knocking both vehicles into the ditch. Scully you are really lucky you weren't sitting in that passenger seat," Mulder swallowed. "Can you stand?" "Yes, I'm fine. My ankles are just bruised. We can't carry all this stuff," she gestured to the suitcase. "Then we'll have to take only what we need," Mulder said, opening the trunk and revealing a knapsack. "Couple changes of clothes and some money." They quickly repacked the essentials into the smaller bag and stood up. Scully walked over to the car that had hit them. "Mulder, look at this," she said quietly. Hoisting the bag onto his shoulders he moved to where Scully was peering into the driver's window of their attacker. A man was sprawled in an unnatural position against the steering wheel, and from a large wound on his face, a dark substance dripped, instead of blood. "He was infected," Mulder said. "Now the question is, did the black oil make him do that? Or did he do it on his own?" "If it controlled him..." Scully couldn't bring herself to say what they were both thinking. If the black oil controlled its host, then they could be in for a difficult journey to the north. "We've got to keep moving," Mulder said, taking Scully's hand and leading her up the bank. The sun had risen, casting long shadows of trees over the road. XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX 6:17 a.m. Mulder froze, listening intently. "There's a car coming," he said. Scully stopped as well, glad to rest her feet. A small car approached them slowly, then stopped beside them. There were five passengers in the car. The driver lowered his window a crack. "Are you infected?" the man asked suspiciously. "No," Mulder replied, Scully shook her head. "Look at the eyes," a person in the back said tensely. "Let me see your eyes," the driver commanded. Both agents peered into the window. "Clean. Get in." "Wait. Let us see your eyes," Mulder said, looking into the window. All of the passengers stared at him, finally convincing him that they were good too. He opened the door to the back seat and sat down, then Scully sat on his lap. They drove for an hour, all terrified strangers. A gas station was situated to their left, and the driver decided they needed a pit stop. They entered the parking look and looked around in amazement, there were several cars parked. There had been no traffic on the highway. No people were lingering around outside. They entered the small convenience store, which was crowded with people. "What is everyone doing in here?" Scully asked Mulder, picking up a large bottle of water. "I don't know and I don't like it. Let's just get what we need and keep going," Mulder said. Scully nodded in agreement and went into the next aisle. Her arms full of groceries, Scully made her way to the front of the store. A scream pierced the air inside the shop. Scully looked around in bewilderment for Mulder, then at the woman. More people were joining her frightened cries. Scully looked at the floor and saw what was terrifying them. The black oil was crawling across the floor and entering people. She looked at her own feet and yelped in surprise. "Scully!" Mulder yelled. "Mulder!!" she cried. "It's on me!" "It can't infect you, come on!" Her feet were planted in terror. Her eyes widened as it moved over her sneakers. "Scully, come on! Get out of there!!" she heard Mulder's yell from a distance. The other people were getting infected and moving around in the room infecting the rest. Mulder ran to Scully. "No!" she shrieked. "Don't let it get you." Mulder picked her up over his shoulder and retreated out of the store. Scully shook and gripped the back of his shirt tightly. "They're all infected. We need to find a car," he looked around the parking lot, eyeing a truck that was in front of the gas pumps. He looked in the window and saw the keys, then opened the door and put Scully inside. He ran to the driver's side, and jumped in, turned on the ignition and they pulled out of the parking lot. Scully sat still in her seat, with her eyes half closed. "Are you ok?" Mulder asked, putting his hand on her knee. She closed her eyes and shook her head. "No Mulder, I'm not okay," she sniffed. "This has to be a nightmare, it all has to just go away." A tear escaped her eyes. "I don't think I can do this." "Scully," he said, sliding his hand around to her hip, then pulled her against him. He wrapped his right arm around her waist and rested his chin against her head. He kept his eyes on the road and steered with his left hand. "We can't let them win. Not here, not now." "They've already won," she whimpered, burying her face in his neck. "They don't win, unless we give up," he replied. "And I'm not going to let you give up. You are the only thing that is keeping me going. I love you." "I know," she whispered. "I love you, too." She shifted so she was facing ahead, but still rested her head on his shoulder. "If we quit now, they win," he murmured into her hair, only then allowing his own tears to fall. XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX 12:28 p.m. They were approaching the Canadian Border that was set up on the Expressway to Montreal. "Scully? What's that?" Mulder asked, pointing to the orange barricade blocking the road. Several officers where stationed along side of it. She squinted to see what Mulder was pointing at. "Looks like they don't want anyone getting in... or out." "If we stop, they won't let us through," Mulder said. "Tighten your seat belt, Scully." The words of protest were forming on her lips, but she obeyed. Mulder floored the gas pedal and steered the car in direction of the barricade. The Custom's Office was coming fast on her right. Uniformed guards were hollering and jumping out of the way, as the truck burst through the orange boards. Once they overcame that obstacle, Mulder kept speeding out of sight of the Custom's Office, and prayed that they wouldn't hear sirens. His prayers were answered, because the only sound he heard was the engine of the truck. Scully loosened her seat belt and glanced at a road sign. "58 km to Montreal," she said. "Where in Quebec are we going?" "I don't know. We're going to need to get some gas soon and we should pick up some road maps. The roads are as deserted here as they were back in New York," Mulder commented. "There's one, we should stop and stock up on supplies, because I don't know what the traffic will be like in Montreal." He turned off of the Expressway and into the Irving Convenience Store. Opposite of the last one, this store was completely deserted. There were no cars in the parking lot, nor any customers in the store. There wasn't even a cashier. Scully and Mulder exchanged a look and helped themselves to the groceries they needed; Scully grabbed a map on their way out. Mulder refilled the tank with gas and they were back on their way. Once they were back on the highway, Mulder looked at Scully. "What's on your mind, Mulder?" Scully asked with a smile. It was only the second time he had seen her smile since the morning of the attack. "Nothing," he said with a sly grin. "You have that look," Scully insisted, digging into their food supply. "What look?" Mulder asked, smirking. "That one," Scully said. Mulder chuckled and watched Scully out of the corner of his eye. When she pulled out a bag of sunflower seeds, he swerved dangerously. "Oh, would you like some?" "Of course," he said, holding out his hand. Scully poured a handful in his hand. "So, seriously Mulder, what's up?" "I was just thinking..." he started, immediately killing the carefree mood. Scully looked at him expectantly. "What is the one thing you would go back and do differently?" A sigh escaped her lips. "There's lots of things I would like to have done differently in my life. Nothing major," she added, seeing his look of guilt. "I believe in fate... that we all have our destiny's written for us. Everything happens for a reason, and not all of it is good. I know that being here with you, right now, is what was meant to happen. I just wish..." she paused. Mulder remained silent, glancing back and forth between Scully and the road. "I wish our relationship had begun sooner." "So do I, but Scully, if everything happens for a reason, there must have been a reason why we didn't become involved sooner," Mulder said. Scully stared at him. "Whether it was because this way we both live, or so Bill didn't kick my ass, we'll never know." The corners of her mouth twitched and her gaze softened. "So what was the thing that you would have liked to change?" she asked. "There isn't just one thing," he said quietly. "I would change a lot of it, not listening to everything They said, not bringing you on every single wild goose chase I could possibly find, just to learn something more of what happened that night. Knowing that all I ever learned was what they led me to. But most of all, I wish that I hadn't gotten you involved in this. Don't get me wrong, there is no one else I'd rather be with, but all that you've lost... it's irreplaceable. Now, you've lost everything." "Mulder," Scully said. "I didn't lose everything, I still have you. If I could only have one thing, it would be you. Don't torture yourself thinking that it was all your fault. It isn't, I hold no blame of anything that happened, to you." "Scully, I destroyed the world!" "But you saved me. Mulder, to look back and remember what you did in Antarctica, is almost impossible! Sounds more like a movie, than real life," Scully said. "You didn't destroy the world, the plans for its destruction are millions of years old. Maybe you even saved people." "Tell me how the Hell I saved people," Mulder replied bitterly. "If Colonization had occurred in 13 years... then it would have been a lot more advanced. Maybe even painful. At least we know those who are infected aren't in pain," Scully whispered. "Mulder, you did the right thing." He sighed in frustration. "Come on Mulder, you've been driving for a long time, let me drive now," Scully said quietly. He nodded and pulled over. XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX 6:42 p.m. "So we're driving through La Vern-dry Provincial Park?" Mulder asked, squinting at the road sign. "La Verendrye," Scully corrected. "Well I'm glad at least one of us knows French," Mulder said, sitting back in his seat. "Are you hungry Scully?" "A little, what do you have in mind?" Scully winked. "Agent Scully! No one warned me about your dirty mind!" Mulder exclaimed. Then a grin came over his face. "Well.... we could eat Rolo's off each other, but that isn't exactly what I meant." "Sounds... exotic. Maybe some other time," Scully grinned. "What else is in the bag?" "Um... hmm. We have peppermints, chips, sunflower seeds, and sandwiches. Oh! There are some cookies in here too." "Pass me half of a sandwich," Scully blindly reached toward him, while watching the road. Mulder took her hand and moved it closer to him, then began to suck on her index finger. Scully turned her head toward him sharply, then smiled. "That feels really good." "Anywhere else I can put my... expertise to work?" he leered. Scully blushed and pulled her hand away from him, snatching the sandwich from his other hand. "Where are we headed?" Scully asked. "A place called Nouveau-Comptoir. Its a very small fishing village, only 350 year round residents," Mulder said. "It's far enough north that its isolated and very cold." Scully nodded and kept driving. The scenery was much different then that of DC, there was a thin layer of snow covering the ground. The temperature outside was below freezing, providing a safe haven from the aliens for the time being. "How much further is Nouveau-Comptoir?" Scully asked. "Several hours yet. Are you getting tired? You've been driving for almost four hours, take a rest," Mulder said. Scully pulled over, and they exchanged positions. Scully relaxed in the passenger seat and closed her eyes. "I think I'm going to," Scully yawned. "Take a nap. Wake me when you get tired." "Okay, sweet dreams, Scully," Mulder murmured, but she was already out cold. He convinced himself that it was from exhaustion, and pulled back onto the highway. XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX May 17, 2000 12:29 a.m. Mulder had been driving for almost five hours since Scully fell asleep. He was starting to feel the sleep overcoming his body, but the lingering sound of his conscience told him that he had to keep driving. They'd never make it if they kept sleeping during the night. He looked at his sleeping lover and sighed. Using his jacket as a pillow, Scully rested her head against the door of the pickup truck. Her feet were curled up by Mulder's thigh, her hands rested on her lap. Her chest rose and fell softly, her facial expression was calm. Calm. There was something he hadn't experienced lately. The past week at the office had been torture, with paperwork piled upon paperwork. They worked through their lunch breaks trying to get everything straightened up. But nothing mattered anymore. He closed his eyes briefly and thought of Samantha. He had devoted his life to finding her, allowing her to be the only thing that mattered. Inside, after all the hypnosis, the clones, the lies, he had never thought that he would really find her. She was already there, in a different sense, guiding him and protecting him as he unveiled more of the conspiracy. He couldn't describe the night he had finally seen her. The only word that came to mind was 'closure'. He had finally found what he had been looking for all along. The quest had changed, now it was to find the truth. The truth about those men, and their horrible secrets. Now it was different. His enemies are his only allies. If he couldn't find the truth, then he would save Scully from it. That was the only thing that mattered to him now. He skidded off onto the opposite side of the road and jumped awake. His heart pounding he slowed to a stop. 'And she's not going to be saved if you don't get some sleep,' he told himself, turning off the truck. He laid his head down and watched Scully. Within moments, he was asleep. XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX 6:21 a.m. "Mulder?" Scully murmured as she woke up. Her neck was stiff and her body cramped. Mulder was sitting up at the driver's seat, his head resting against the window. She glanced at her watch and sighed in frustration. They should have started going by now. "Sweetheart?" she murmured, crawling over him. "Wake up." "I'm..." he yawned. "Awake." "I told you to wake me when you got tired," she lectured, sitting in the middle seat of the vehicle. "I forgot?" he offered, turning the key, and bringing the car to life once again. "We're low on gas and I could use a pit stop." Scully nodded in agreement, unfolding the map. "This says that there should be a store about 30 kms from our area. Where are we, exactly, Mulder?" He squinted and tried to remember the last road signs he had seen the night before. "Uh, I think the last I saw was Fort George." "Well! Then the store should be... just up here," Scully said. Sure enough, the store was situated not far from them. There were a few cars parked, but the morning air was silent. They gassed up, then entered the store. Both headed for the washrooms in the back. Scully splashed water on her face, then stared at her reflection as water dripped into the sink. Dark circles spread under her eyes from lack of sleep and stress. Her eyes and lips were swollen slightly. She hadn't washed her hair in days, nor bathed properly. For the few moments that they stopped at stores she managed to clean herself up as much as possible. Her clothes were wrinkled and worn. Scully sighed, drying her face with a paper towel. This was a nightmare. She left the ladies room, and spotted Mulder going up and down an aisle. Unlike the other stores, this one had a cashier, and a few customers. She walked to the front to pay for the gas, when the door burst open. "No one move!" A masked man shouted, pointing a gun at the cashier. She screamed and cowered behind the register. The man looked at Scully and the cashier and took a menacing step toward them. Mulder reached for his gun, but realized with a sickening feeling that he had left it in the truck. Scully also reached for hers, as the masked man fired his weapon. The shot rang out in Mulder's ears as he lounged for the man. Tackling him from behind and knocking him unconscious, Mulder kicked the gun out of his hand, while Scully slumped to the floor. "Scully!" He yelled, forgetting about the shooter and stumbling to her side. Her hands clutched her right side, applying as much pressure as she could gather. "It's not as bad as it looks," she wheezed, gasping for air. "The bullet..." His face went white. The cashier grabbed a first aid kit from under the counter and hurried over to them. Mulder laid her down carefully on the floor, then pulled her sweatshirt up, to reveal the wound. "... skimmed me," she murmured. The entrance of the bullet was on the outer most part of her side, removing a small portion of flesh. There was blood covering her stomach, and dripping onto the floor. He opened the first aid kit. "Hold on, Scully. Go get something to clean her up with," he barked at the cashier. She obeyed him, scurrying to the washrooms. Mulder pressed a wad of gauze against her side, making Scully gasp in pain. Tears filled her eyes, and her bloody fingers gripped his arms. The cashier returned with her arms filled with wet paper towels. He scrubbed some of the blood off from around the wound, but didn't cease on the pressure he applied to her. Tears fell soundlessly down her temples, as Scully gazed at the ceiling from where her head rested against the floor. "Scully you're going to be ok, just relax," Mulder whispered, replacing the used gauze with fresh bandages. He taped it securely over her hip and across her stomach, stopping the blood flow. Then he wrapped her waist, to prevent irritation to the wound. "Scully." "Yeah," she replied slowly. "How do you feel?" Mulder asked. "Faint... dizzy," she moaned. Mulder carefully lifted her up and carried her to the door. The cashier followed them. "Take what you need, please." Then she eyed the man lying on the ground and shuddered. "And take this, too," she called, holding up the first aid kit. She picked up the items that Mulder had dropped, and grabbed some extra strength Tylenol on her way to their truck. "If I were you, I'd run," Mulder said, accepting the items. And pulling away from the store. He hated leaving the poor girl there, but he couldn't do anything else. Scully was lying across the seat, her feet resting on Mulder's lap. Her head was on the seat as well, and she tried to completely relax her body. The load the cashier had given them remained on the floor by the passenger seat. "Do you want some Tylenol?" Mulder asked, covering her with his jacket. She nodded her head slightly, aware of the pounding. He pulled over and dug out the medication and a bottle of water. Mulder handed her some pills, slid his left hand behind her and slowly propped her up enough to drink without choking. She gratefully accepted them and took a tiny sip of water. Her face paled even more then it already was. "Did you drink it too fast? Are you going to be sick?" Mulder asked in concern. She didn't say anything for a moment. Then she shook her head, "No, I'm fine." She paused again. "Mulder?" "Yes?" "Can you help me switch positions?" she asked quietly. "How do you want to be moved?" He replied, pulling over again. He hated seeing her like this, only because she hated seeing herself like this. Dana Scully hated being weak. "I want to put my head on your lap, so my feet are against the door," Scully said, struggling to get up. "Scully, stop moving," he said, getting out and walking around the truck. He opened the passenger door. He lifted her completely out of the car, then turned her around and carefully slid her back in again. He heard her faint whimper as she bit her lip to hide her cry. "God, Scully, I'm sorry," Mulder laid her down again. "I didn't mean to hurt-" Scully put her finger to Mulder's lips. "I know," she whispered. "Don't worry about it, please, Mulder. You could never hurt me." He looked doubtful, then hesitantly leaned down and kissed her cheek. Moving around the truck he got back in and cradled her head against his thighs. Scully looked up at him; tears pooled in her eyes, and bit her lip. Then she slowly brought her left hand up, and placed it on his knee, squeezing softly. XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX 1:12 p.m. "Scully?!" Mulder called. "Sweetheart wake up!" Mulder grasped her shoulders. Scully's eyes opened instantly, a look of horror written all over her face. "God Mulder," was all that she could say, before she started to cry. He picked her up as much as he could, and held her tightly. "What happened?" She buried her face in his neck and cried softly. He waited for her to gather herself together, before trying to jump in again. Whatever she had been dreaming had made her upset enough to cry out and scream in her sleep. When she finally pushed away from him, turning into the untouchable Dana Scully, she murmured, "Thanks." Then relaxed against him, this time not shutting her eyes. "What happened, Scully?" Mulder asked. She sighed, then dried off the new tears forming with the back of her hand. "Nothing, it was just a dream," she mumbled, trying to pull away from him, but gasped in pain. "Scully," he said sternly. "Please, Mulder, just drop it," she asked quietly, averting his gaze. "I'm just worried about you," Mulder replied, brushing her hair away from her face. "I know," she whispered. "I know." XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX 4:08 p.m. A large road sign announced their arrival in Nouveau- Comptoir. The streets were slick with ice and the houses were one story cabins along the Hudson Bay. The town square was a small array of shops, a grocery store, post office, gas station, hospital and police/fire station. To their amazement, it wasn't deserted. "We finally made it?" Scully choked out. Mulder nodded, a small smile forming on his lips. "We're here." A car drove up to them and stopped. A light haired man rolled down his window, and shuddered at the cold. He was quite tall, with red hair and blue eyes. His eyes showed that he wasn't infected. "Salute," he said. "Hi," Mulder replied, after he rolled down the window. "Kurt Crawford." He gasped at the temperature change; it was a lot colder then it had been at their last pit stop. The wind was coming from the water, leaving the town in a light blanket of ice. Scully struggled to sit up; Mulder had only mentioned him to her once. Mulder's surprised tone forced her body into a sitting position, leaning heavily against him. "Agent Mulder," Kurt said, nodding to Mulder. Then he gazed at Scully. "Agent Scully. I see Agent Mulder succeeded." Scully's eyes widened, then she glanced at Mulder. "I'll tell you later," Mulder whispered to Scully. "I thought they had killed you," Mulder said. "No, we were their employees, they didn't harm us. They couldn't, without the stiletto," Kurt sighed. "I know why you are here," Mulder sat up straighter. "How do you know?" "You were drawn here, to us. We've been expecting you since the day They came," Kurt started. "You wanted to find the truth, we are part of that truth you've searched so dearly for. We've been waiting to meet you for a very long time, Agent Mulder." "What? Who's we?" Scully asked. "Me... and my brothers. You are one of our mothers." Scully's jaw dropped. "I thought they killed you," Mulder said. "Yes. We escaped from Lombard Research Facility the night Colonization started, and sought refuge up here. We knew they were coming. We were supposed to carry through the final plans. But you know that we were working secretly against them, in hopes to save our mothers from the illnesses they were given. We escaped not from the Purity, we are immune to that, but from becoming the slave race to the Colonists once they succeed. There is one thing about this town that you don't know, something so obvious you should be able to point it out on a map." "What don't we know about this place?" Mulder asked. Scully rested her chin on his shoulder and stared at the man. Too many secrets about this project, so much finally coming out in the open, when it was too late. "Do you have a map?" Kurt asked, getting out of his car and standing next to the window. Scully passed him their road map. Kurt folded it to the place where you can see all of Quebec. "This bay, a little north of this outpost, on the Eastern side of the Hudson Bay; Home of the Hopewell and Nastapoka Islands." Mulder paused to see if Kurt was going to continue. When he didn't, Mulder said, "That bay was put there when the Jacques Comet crashed to Earth millions of years ago. Most of it is submerged, but erosion is beginning to bring the Belcher Islands to surface." Kurt nodded his head. "Impressive," he announced, "But that is what They wanted everyone to believe. All of the remaining ships are much smaller than the mother ship you destroyed in Antarctica, and are buried deep within the oceans. Black Oil can survive water, but remains dormant in the cold. Once Colonization is upon us..." "Are you trying to tell us that the bay is really a space ship grounded underneath thousands of tons of water?" Mulder sputtered. "Does the hole look like it could have been the formation of a UFO, Agent Mulder?" Kurt said seriously. "Once the aliens mutate, the ship will be raised and Purity set out to destroy this part of the world. There is no stopping it." Mulder studied the picture long and hard before admitting that it could have some possibilities. "Come with me, we've prepared a cottage for you, then you can meet my brothers," Kurt replied. "How do we know that you are telling us the truth?" Mulder asked. "Truth? We give you the truth, because we have nothing to lose. All you can do is believe us and allow us to help, or go your own way and allow us to watch you die," Kurt muttered. Mulder shifted into drive, while Kurt got back in his car. The agents followed Kurt down the deserted streets to a small house overlooking the bay. The windows were small, with large shutters over them, and the house looked cold and uninviting. "I'll meet you back here in a couple of hours," Kurt said, passing them the key to the house. Mulder got out of the truck and went around to Scully's side. He opened her door, then slid her across the seat and into his arms. He carried her to the front of the house, then opened the door with his weak arm. He turned on the light as they entered the small foyer. The house was basically furnished, the living room consisted of a small sofa set with a fireplace, and the kitchen's cupboards were well stocked with food. A dinette set was pushed into the corner of the crowded kitchen. There was a bedroom that had only enough room for a double bed and a dresser and a small bathroom. "Well, at least it's shelter from the cold," Mulder offered, putting Scully down on the bed and frowning at her blood- stained sweatshirt. Scully allowed her eyes to wander down to her hip, where the blood had dried hours ago. A dark red stain covered almost the length of the shirt. "I'm going to find you something else to wear," Mulder said, opening the dresser. To his surprise, it as well, was stocked with warm clothes. He lifted another sweater out and sat down on the bed beside Scully. "Are you going to tell me?" She asked quietly, as Mulder pulled the sweatshirt over her bandages. "Tell you what?" Mulder said, pulling her arms back through the sleeves. "In the truck, about Kurt, and you were trying to save me?" Scully's voice wavered, then Mulder guided the shirt over her head and replaced it with the sweater. He shivered, then got up and turned the thermostat higher and listened for the furnace to kick on. "When you were in the hospital the first time, with Penny," Mulder paused, waiting for her reaction. Her lips moved slightly, and Mulder carefully wrapped his arms around her and drew her against him. "I tried desperately to get a cure for you. I got into the Lombard Research Facility, and found more of the Kurt Crawfords. They are scientists, working like my father did." "Against the project?" Mulder nodded. "They are hybrids, created just like Emily." Scully closed her eyes, as her child's face appeared in her mind. Mulder wiped the tear that formed in the corner of her eye. "Their mothers, were... the female abductees. He showed me, and told me, that they were trying to save their mothers, find a cure for the cancer. He led me to this chamber which contained human ova, taken from," he couldn't continue. "Mine was there?" Scully asked, pressing her face against his chest. He nodded. "Yes, and I.. I took it with me." "You what?" Scully pushed away from him. "I kept it," Mulder stuttered. "And you didn't bother to tell me?" Anger rose in Scully's voice, as she tried to maneuver out of his embrace. "I didn't want to hurt you," Mulder said softly. "There was so much going on for you, you didn't even know you were barren then." "Let go of me." She gave a muffled cry, and Mulder immediately released her. She pulled herself up so she was balancing on her hands. "You didn't tell me." "I wanted to, God Scully I wanted to!" Mulder exclaimed. "There was never the right time. You were in the hospital for that cancer, we were close-" "Is that all you can manage to think about?" she said bitterly, kicking her legs off the bed and making an attempt to stand. "Scully!" Mulder cried as her legs buckled beneath her, sending her toppling onto the floor. He raced around the bed and reached for her. "No," she whispered. Mulder let his hand drop. "Don't touch me, I-I can't deal with all this," Scully murmured, from the awkward position on her back. She squeezed her eyes shut. Silence blanketed the room for a few minutes, then Scully opened her eyes. "What else happened that you didn't bother to tell me?" she pleaded. Mulder knelt beside her. "I found the cure for Emily," escaped his lips before he had time to think. Her body flew to a sitting position, causing her to cry out in pain. "Mulder," Scully's voice was accented by a sharp tone of anger he had never heard before. "How could you," her voice cracked. "How could you not tell me." Tears slid down her cheeks, as she gasped for air. "I wanted to, but it was too late. I followed Emily's doctor, and I found myself in a refrigerated storage area. I-I found your name on a list, and an alien fetus. Then there were some vials with some liquid; I took one with me. When I finally got to you, you told me it what meant to be," he stopped and looked at her. Scully started to sob quietly. "Then I asked you what you would do if you could treat her, and you said that you wouldn't. I asked you if you were sure, and you told me again. I wanted to tell you, I wanted to stay and tell you. I never meant to hurt you." Tears were falling down his cheeks. "That's the last thing I ever wanted to do. Then it was too late to ever bring it up again." Scully didn't say anything, so Mulder rested his hand on her shoulder. She didn't pull back this time. He moved his hand over her shoulder and down her back. He lifted her up, and laid her on the bed, holding her close to him. Neither spoke, nor moved. They just rested within the comfort of each other. XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX 7:39 p.m. "Every house has a generator, because we are known for our frequent surprise blizzards. People usually keep the houses stocked up, in case they are snowed in for days. Although it's May, I've heard some awful stories about those caught in the blizzards unprepared in July," Kurt said to Mulder, as they walked through the small house later that evening. "The fireplace in the living room is your central heat source, firewood is stored in that closet." He pointed at a small closet near the fireplace. "The wood shed is out back. You also have the furnace." Mulder nodded, absorbing the information, then asked suspiciously, "Why are you helping us so much?" "Dana is the only one of our mothers who survived the terminal cancer given to her. We had always been the ones delaying the work on the new hybrids, in hopes of finding a cure for that cancer for our mothers. Now she's the only one," Kurt said. "My brothers are working in the underground laboratory, still trying to find a way of permanent escape from the Colonists." "So this is only temporary?" Mulder asked. "Once the ship near us raises, then the cold part of the world is no longer safe. The oil won't kill us, or you, but the mutation will," Kurt said gravely. "I've got to be going, there is much to be done. If you need to contact me, use the radio, we'll be the only one's picking up." Mulder said his good byes then stared out into the blackness around them. The waves from the bay near by crashed noisily onto the shore. Tiny snowflakes fell down onto the porch, as Mulder tried to peer through the dark clouds and for a glimpse of the stars. Scully was in the bedroom; he had managed to untwine his body from hers and leave her sleeping while he talked to Kurt. He wanted to take a look at the bullet wound, and debated waking her up to do so. He crept into the dark bedroom and watched her. Scully was rested on her left hip, using her left arm to rest her chin on. Her right hand was gripping the blankets where Mulder had been laying. She reached further, trying to find his warmth, then started trembling. Mulder moved to her side, just as she cried out in fright. "Scully! Wake up," Mulder said, trying to make his voice sound calm. She opened her eyes, and relief flooded her face when she saw him. "It's okay," Mulder whispered, holding her against him, rubbing up and down her back. "I-I thought," Scully gasped, burying her face further into his chest. "They took you," she whispered. "You were gone and I couldn't find you. I was so scared, so scared Mulder," she whimpered. "It's okay, I'm not going anywhere," Mulder coaxed. "Is this what you dreamt in the car?" She shook her head no and gripped his biceps. "Do you want to talk about them?" Mulder asked, softly. Scully didn't move. "Scully?" "I-I... dreamt that you ditched me, to go chase after the aliens," she sobbed. "I don't want to be alone Mulder, I don't think I could do it." "I'm not going to leave you, Scully. I love you; nothing is going to change that. I am going to stay by your side until the very end," Mulder murmured. She stopped crying. "Do you promise?" "Yes, I promise," Mulder whispered. Scully sighed, and relaxed against him. "Can I see your side?" Mulder asked, his fingers brushing over the bandage. Scully nodded, and pulled away from him tenderly. Her fingertips rested on his shoulders, as he laid her on back. He pushed the shirt up until it was level with her breasts, then he unwound the bandage. It stuck against the dried blood all over her stomach, and Scully tensed. "I think you need to get cleaned up," Mulder suggested, slowly pulling the wrap off her. "I think a hot bath would be good," Scully replied, allowing Mulder to finish taking off the wrap. The bandage was still over the direct wound. "Okay then," Mulder said, "I'll run the water." He got up and disappeared into the bathroom, the sound of water running started immediately. Mulder reappeared and lifted Scully up and carried her into the bathroom. "Can you stand by yourself?" Mulder asked. "Yes, my legs are cramped from the trip, and I feel physically weak right now, but I think I can stand as long as I don't move," Scully said, as Mulder slowly set her down on her feet. Scully held on to his biceps for a moment, before letting go of him completely. "I'll be as good as new in a few days," she diagnosed. "Until then, I'll have to let you take care of me." Scully smiled briefly. "I can't argue with doctor's orders," Mulder said, returning the smile. He pulled the sweater over her head, then unclasped her bra. His fingers dipped under the waistband of her sweat pants and panties, then he pulled both down to the floor. Scully rested her hands on his shoulders as she stepped out of them awkwardly. Mulder rose to his knees, then untaped the bandage from her side. Scully had been right, it wasn't much. The bleeding had completely stopped, leaving dried blood plastered all around it. The bullet had been small and only managed to pierce a small amount of skin. He sighed with relief then stood up. "Are you ready?" Mulder asked. "Yes," Scully said. Mulder moved his hands to her hips and guided her closer to the tub. He lifted her up and over the edge, then dipped her feet into the warm water. He lowered her into the water slowly, receiving a soft gasp as the water hit the raw skin. "Is it too hot?" Mulder asked. "No, it's perfect," Scully said, as Mulder moved her shoulder's against the porcelain tub. Mulder rubbed the wash cloth across her stomach, then over her injured side. "Are you going to join me?" "I don't want to hurt you," Mulder said, brushing the cloth over the wound. "You can't hurt me, Mulder," Scully replied, placing her hand over his. She moved both of their hands over her the wound, cleaning it thoroughly. Once it was finished, she released his hand and moved her legs over, creating room for him in the tub. Mulder smiled warmly at her and forced all the rest of his thoughts into the back of his mind. He quickly undressed and slipped into the warm water. Mulder brought the cloth to her shoulder and squeezed the excess water out, so it dripped down her shoulder and over the curve of her breast, then into the water. Scully sunk deeper into the water as Mulder continued to bathe her. His hands caressed her intimately, massaging her body thoroughly. "I like that," Scully murmured, as Mulder ran his hand from the back of her knee, down her thigh, to cup her bottom. "The water is getting awfully cold now," Mulder said, releasing her. Scully opened her eyes and stared at him. "I was just beginning to warm up," she whispered. Mulder grinned. "You'll just have to wait, my dear," he said, getting out and drying his body off quickly. He put on a pair of sweatpants, and threw a towel over his shoulder. Scully pouted, then allowed Mulder to lift her into his arms. He stood her in front of the tub, then rubbed her body clean of water drops. He took out a fresh bandage and applied it to the wound. "Do you want me to go find you some pajamas?" Mulder smirked, holding her against him. "It would be helpful, unless you are considering going against your little 'you'll just have to wait, my dear' bit," Scully said. "Ok then, I'll be right back," Mulder replied, releasing her and dashing into the bedroom. After the sound of drawers slamming, Mulder reappeared with a pair of flannel pajamas. After helping her dress, Scully insisted on trying to walk back into the bedroom. It wasn't far, but Mulder didn't want her to hurt herself more, so they agreed with walking with his arm around her waist. Mulder pulled back the blankets and covered Scully. "Are you hungry? Would you like something to eat or drink?" Mulder asked. "No thanks, I'm just tired. I need a good night's sleep," Scully sighed. Mulder joined her in the bed. Spooning up behind her, he reached for the bedside lamp and turned it off. Thick darkness swallowed the room. "Scully?" Mulder asked, holding her closer. "Yes?" she replied. "I'm scared too," he whispered. Scully hesitated a moment before sliding her hand over his. XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX May 18, 2000 8:56 a.m. Scully woke up slowly. The temperature in the room was still warm, and she was buried in thick blankets. She could feel Mulder's body behind her and the dull throb on her side. She opened her eyes, and looked around the room. The day's events came whipping back to her, causing her to groan softly. She shifted enough so she could see Mulder, and then noticed that he was still asleep. She drew in closer to him again, savoring the amount of body heat between the two of them. She let her mind unravel everything that had happened the previous day, and before she knew it, she had tears streaming down her face. She was stuck with guilt of leaving everyone back home to die. She didn't have many close friends, but her biggest concern was her mother. And Bill and Charles. She'd betrayed them by leaving to save herself. Another wave of guilt washed over her. Emily. Her heart thudded. She could have saved her daughter, the only child she would ever have. Mulder. Anger bubbled within her. He had known but hadn't shared two major things that could have changed a lot in her life. She could have had children, damnit. But for what? For them to be left behind while the parents fled from the enemy who couldn't lose? She swallowed the lump in her throat. She couldn't be mad at Mulder, he meant too much to her. She loved him; she couldn't blame him for her misfortunes. He blamed himself, he had already confessed on this trip. She let out a soft sob. Mulder awoke and cradled Scully. He gave her a look of concern seeing her eyes red and swollen from crying. "What's wrong?" he asked softly. Scully shook her head violently, trying to clear the depressing images. All she could see was the people from the past whom she loved. She let out a cry of defeat, then collapsed sobbing into Mulder's arms. He held her tightly in amazement. Scully was physically and emotionally weak. He had been wondering exactly how much she had been able to take. She was always the strong one, the one with the barriers between her and her emotions. Four days ago the walls had finally capsized, unleashing a flood of ScullyAngst he had never seen before. She was always so distant, lost in her own world. He knew she'd never be the same. "I left them," she sobbed. "I left them to die, I just ran... away with you." "Is that what this is all about?" Mulder asked. "Scully you didn't betray them. The ones who really loved you, they would have preferred you go off and be saved, than to stay in the world of terror until the final blow arrived. They will rest in peace, you've just got to have faith in your decisions." Scully was silent. "I'm just so scared. Scared for what they're going through, scared for all I've been through. I was thinking... I could have children now, but this wouldn't be the perfect world. We would have struggled to survive with our children. Nothing is ever what it seems, one path only leads you so far, and each decision you make changes the course of your life forever." "You've got to pull through this, I know it's harder for you than it is for me. We've got a long way to go, but at least we're together, we're healthy, and we have all we need for survival." Scully nodded against him. "I know," she whimpered. "I know." He held her for a few more minutes, then quietly asked, "Are you hungry?" "Starved," she replied, wriggling out of his grasp. She pushed the blankets back, then slid her legs over the edge of the bed. "Scully can you walk?" Mulder asked, crawling up behind her. She slowly stood up, keeping her hands on the bed. "Yes, I think I can. It doesn't hurt very much any more," she said, taking a small step. Mulder sighed with relief. "Can you make it to the kitchen?" he asked, getting out of the bed and following her to the doorway of the bedroom. She nodded and they slowly made their way into the kitchen. He guided her into the kitchen, and looked at the well- stocked cupboards. "What'll it be, Scully? Doctor's orders... I have to take care of you," he said when she opened her mouth to protest. "Ok then," Scully said with a wink. "I can think up some more doctor's orders that I'd like you to follow." Mulder's eyes widened, and he forced himself to swallow. "And what would those be, Agent Scully?" "You'll see," she replied, smiling innocently at him. XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX May 19, 2000 11:21 a.m. "Agent Scully, Agent Mulder!" Kurt pounded on the door of the small cabin. "What is it?" Mulder asked, opening the door. "You're both in grave danger, the Bounty Hunter, you know who I mean, is looking for you. Only us hybrids can tell who he is." Mulder looked at him. "This guy is trying to find us? Why?" "He is an alien, and they know it was you who vaccinated the entire ship. Now they are going to 'repay' you for the damages you've caused," Kurt said. "You've got to come with me." Mulder led Kurt into the house as Scully came to the door. "What's the problem?" she asked. "They're looking for us," Mulder replied. A moment of confusion crossed Scully's face for a moment, before she retreated into the bedroom. Over the past 24 hours her injury had healed considerably. Mulder led Kurt into the house, then followed Scully into the bedroom. She was pacing nervously in the small space at the end of the bed. "Scully?" Mulder asked. She let out a sigh. "I'm not going to give up, Mulder," Scully said softly. "I'm just scared, and frustrated, and .... I just want it all to be over." He placed his palm on her shoulder. "Me too." They stood in silence, listening to the faint sounds of Kurt scurrying around in the kitchen. "I, uh, think we should gather some clothes to take with us, wherever Kurt decides to take us," Mulder said. Scully nodded, then started pulling out some sweaters. "Where do you think he is taking us?" Scully asked, as Mulder brought a suitcase out from under the bed. "I don't know, I guess we'll see soon enough," Mulder replied, as they hurriedly packed the suitcase. When they finally emerged from the bedroom, Kurt was sitting on the sofa frowning at his watch. "We don't have much time, he could show up at anytime. There is one important thing, you must never leave my side," Kurt said sternly. Both agents nodded, then followed him out of the cabin. They drove to the small police/fire station, then got out of the car. "It's in here," Kurt led them into the building. Without turning on a light, he walked across the room, to an unmarked door. He opened it, and led them through. Immediately they were faced with another door. Kurt slid his key card through and punched in the password. "For security measures," he explained. The doors opened and revealed an elevator; they got in and dropped a few floors before the doors reopened. It was the underground lab that Kurt had spoken of. The layout seemed a bit familiar to Mulder, when he had seen all the Kurt Crawfords while searching for a cure for Scully's cancer. Large tanks were set up in the room, but all remained empty. The computers beside them were blank and the room was still. Filing cabinets were arranged along the back wall, with refrigerated cabinets and a vault was on another wall. On the third wall, there was another door. Mulder glanced at Scully and he took her hand. Kurt led them through the door and they found themselves in a high tech research facility. Several other hybrids looking exactly like Kurt monitored computers, while others were busy inputting data into the mainframe. "This is how we hope to save the uninfected world. That space ship on the coast of the bay will be rising soon. Our only hopes are if we can hijack it with the data and passwords we are accumulating right now. Then, over the years we have created another means to kill the aliens, but it's very dangerous. We have to go inside the space ship and inject an alien, like what you did to Agent Scully, and that will kill all the rest of the aliens in their pods. Their blood is acid, as is ours, and the compound is very basic. The substance will leave their blood relatively neutral. Then we have to find the main control station and enable the alien control from their base station. After all that is accomplished, we must make a quick trip around the world, to gather the uninfected humans left, if any, then find a new home." "That sounds like something out of a science fiction movie," Scully said. "We only wish this were all a movie," Kurt said sadly. "How are they doing?" Mulder asked, gesturing at the hybrids. "We think we will be ready tonight, the ship should be rising within a few days," Kurt explained. "Then we wait." Suddenly the ground shifted, causing the computers to slide on their tables, lights to flicker and commotion to arise in the small laboratory. "What's going on?" a voice yelled. "Did anyone press anything?" another asked. The lights turned back on, and the hybrids looked at the mess. The room was sloping at a slight angle, throwing off some experiments. "What was that all about? Did the ship move?" Kurt asked, rushing over to the mainframe. The data was going off the charts. "I don't believe this!" "What?" Mulder asked. "The ship shifted upward by 20 degrees toward our town. It caused some slight earthquakes, and on the other end, flooding on the coast," a different hybrid explained. "Do we know why the ship could just move like that?" Scully asked. "There are a number of factors that could account for the why. Now, if you could excuse me, there are many preparations that have to be made for tonight," he replied, busying himself in the data on the computer screen in front of him. Mulder guided Scully to the corner of the room. "I'm worried about this, Scully. Their plan doesn't seem as solid as I hoped it would be." Kurt approached them. "I'm sorry, you two are going to have to come up with me to get the final adjustments." The Agents followed him back into the elevator and emerged inside the police/fire station once again. "I've got to check a few things out back. Could you check the satellite view of the Hudson Bay area? We need to see an assessment of the damages, and we can't get a clear reading from underground anymore," Kurt said, disappearing out back. XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX 1:02 p.m. "Mr. Crawford," a man spoke in the darkness before Kurt had a chance to turn on the light. "Who's there?" he asked nervously, his hand on the light switch. "You know who I am, and what I came for," the man replied, grasping an object in his right hand, and stepping closer to Kurt. "Stay away from me!" Kurt exclaimed, turning on the light. The Bounty Hunter stood in front of him, blocking his path. "Now it's time for me to collect those things," the Bounty Hunter said. Kurt dodged behind him and toward the window of the back room. The Bounty Hunter followed, then cornered him. "There is no escape...." He held the stiletto in front of him. "..from the end." He punctured the back of Kurt's neck, leaving the green blood oozing out of him. The Bounty Hunter grabbed the key card from Kurt's pocket, and a small piece of paper with the password written on it. Then he changed his body to look identical to the Kurt Crawfords. "Agents Mulder and Scully, I'm ready. We can return below now," the Bounty Hunter said. "Don't you want the pictures?" Mulder asked from the computer screen. "Of course, do you have them?" "Yes, we're ready." "Good, come on then," the Bounty Hunter said, going to the unmarked door, and opening it. Mulder and Scully got up and followed Kurt. By the time they reached him, he had already opened the second door and was holding the elevator for them. "I think that most of the preparations are complete," Kurt said with a grin. "So we'll be able to take charge almost immediately" "I thought you were waiting for the ship to rise?" Mulder asked. "We are... but it should come up fairly soon." Mulder and Scully exchanged a curious glance, as the elevator landed at the laboratory. The doors opened and they walked to the room with the hybrids. Kurt walked in front of them, and as soon as he entered the room, the hybrids all looked up. Their mouths opened, and they cowered from Kurt. Slowly the hybrids backed away from their work, some shutting down completely, into a corner the furthest away from Kurt. Kurt slowly walked toward them, forgetting Mulder and Scully for the time being. The Kurts yelled out, then the agents finally realized what had happened. As Kurt walked toward the rest of the hybrids, Mulder and Scully crept out of the room in silence. Once they exited the room, they tore across the room with the tanks, then into the elevator. They had almost reached the station, when the elevator stopped. The lights immediately went out. "Mulder?" Scully asked, her breath heavy, and her side hurting. "What are we going to do?" Panic gripped her voice. "These things have emergency trap doors, right?" he asked, a sick feeling overcoming him. "I think so," Scully replied, she felt Mulder's hands brush her waist. "I'm going to lift you up to try to find a lever to open it," Mulder said, his hands settling on her hips. "Okay," she replied. She took a deep breath, as Mulder lifted her up to the top. She slid her hands over the smooth surface of the ceiling of the elevator. "Mulder, I can't find anything," she said in frustration. "Keep looking," Mulder urged, walking around slowly. Her fingers brushed a small object. "Go back a step," she said, and he complied. She found the object. It seemed too small to be a release of a trap door, but she played with it with her fingers. She pushed against it, and a panel slid back on the ceiling. Mulder let out a grunt of joy, then hoisted her up further. Scully grasped the edge of the door and with the help of Mulder, she crawled onto the roof of the elevator. "Mulder how are you going to get out?" She asked. "There is a hand bar around the room, I'm going to step on it, and then I'm going to need you to help pull me out," Mulder answered. A few seconds later, she saw his fingers grip the edge of the door. "Take my hand," Scully said, moving her hand over his. He grasped it firmly and she planted her body around the thick cables that held the elevator up. She pulled Mulder further up, so she could see his face. She adjusted her position, held her other hand out to him and pulled him entirely up, then they both laid on the roof of the elevator for a moment. "Come on Scully, the door is just up there a little bit, and it's open," Mulder urged. "We just have to climb the cables about ten feet." Scully slowly got to her feet and looked up. "Come on, I'll give you a boost," Mulder said. He lifted her up and she grasped the cords. She remembered the tedious FBI training, as she wrapped her legs around the cords and pulled her body up the length of cord. Once she reached the doorway, she pulled herself out of the elevator shaft, then turned to help Mulder out. He finished climbing, then slid out of the shaft. "We've got to keep going," Scully said, standing up and opening the door to the station. XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX 4:28 p.m. The Bounty Hunter looked smugly at the pile of dead hybrids in the corner of the room. He typed another password into the mainframe and a series of warning lights lit up next to him. A countdown started on a clock, giving them fifteen minutes to prepare for the rising of the ship. The Bounty Hunter punched in a final code, creating a low rumble in the ground. It echoed in the small room, and he turned the elevator back on. XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX "Do you hear that?" Scully asked as they ran out of the building. Mulder listened, then shook his head. "Hear what?" The low rumble was steadily getting louder. Scully looked at him. "That rumble." Mulder listened again, then his eyes widened when he heard it. "Do you think the ship is rising?" Scully asked. "I think we better take cover somewhere," Mulder said. They started running toward Kurt's car and grasped the door handles. "Why is it locked? We're the only ones here!" Scully cried. "You must be mistaken," a voice said from behind them. Scully tried to slow her racing heart, as she turned around. The Bounty Hunter stood behind them. "Going somewhere?" he asked, pulling something out of his pocket. "Scully! Run!" Mulder yelled, as the Bounty Hunter produced the stiletto. Scully ducked under the Bounty Hunter's arm and ran with Mulder down the street. They turned into the alley between the post office and the hospital. The sound of a car engine alarmed them, as the automobile chased them down the alley. "Mulder! What are we going to do?" Scully yelled, her breath coming out in short gasps. "We've got to hide," he said, as the car gained on them. They were almost out of the alley, as the car sped up until it was mere feet from them. Just as Mulder and Scully ran out of the alley, Mulder jumped sideways, wrapping his arms around Scully, and knocking both of them out of the path of the car. They rolled from the impact, then Mulder jumped up, and grabbed Scully's hand. He pulled her up with him, and they ran in the opposite direction. "Got to stop," Scully gasped, clutching her side with her other hand. "Scully!" Mulder yelled as her legs gave out on her. She let out a muffled cry as she tumbled to the ground. He cradled her against him as she opened her eyes. Blood was starting to show through the sweater she was wearing. He lifted her up and kept running. Scully wrapped her arms around his neck, and looked over his shoulder. The car was parked with the driver's door open and empty inside. "He's gone," Scully murmured to Mulder's ear. She could hear his breaths coming in deep gasps, as his legs pumped carrying them to safety. The ground shook roughly, causing Mulder to lose his balance and they crashed to the ground again. This time it took them longer to right themselves. The ground continued shaking, making buildings start to tremble. "Shit!" He yelled, as the foundation of the building next to them gave away, and the cabin toppled toward them. Mulder started running on the vibrating ground, biting his lip. Scully held on tighter to him, as more buildings began to fall. The ground started to shake more, causing large cracks to appear in the asphalt streets. The ground started separating in large clumps, as pieces lifted up higher. The ground spilt in front of them, blocking their path. "I'm going to jump," Mulder warned, quickening his pace. Scully held back her fears, as she glanced at the large crack that was getting closer and closer to them. As Mulder leapt across it, Scully buried her face in his neck, and prayed that they'd make the large gash in the earth's soil. Mulder landed on his knees, crying out in pain and triumph, as he fell down on top of Scully. They sprawled on the ground, as the Bounty Hunter appeared on the other side. Mulder slowly got to his feet, shaking. "Mulder, we've got to take cover, find shelter," Scully gasped. "There." She pointed at a cabin a head of them. "It's not safe, Scully. The ground could cave and we could all be in the water," he said, looking around in panic. The ground continued to violently shake. "Where?" Scully asked in panic. "There's no where to hide!" Mulder started running in another direction, to the side of the small town that wasn't against the water. Then the ground stopped shaking. "Mulder, I can run on my own," Scully said, "we can go faster." Mulder gently put Scully on the ground, and the two of them ran side by side. "Why did it stop? Is it over?" Mulder asked. His question was left unanswered. The ship rose out of the ground completely, and flew over them. The ship blocked the sun, leaving the ground in complete darkness. It hovered over them. Scully grasped Mulder's hand. Suddenly hundreds of lights turned on from the underside of the space ship. They were frozen in awe staring at the remarkable sight above them. A beam of light settled on the ground where the Bounty Hunter was standing. He was lifted into the spaceship slowly. Mulder and Scully started running blindly away from the spaceship, determined to escape. It started to move through the skies, just as the Agents stepped into nothingness. Their hands grasped on the rough rock as they fell into a crack in the ground. The ship flew into the distance, allowing the sun to shine on the earth again. Beneath them, ice water from the Hudson Bay rippled from the little rocks that fell into it. "Pull yourself up, Scully," Mulder grunted, slowly pulling his body out of the crack. His fingers were raw and bloody from grasping the sharp edge, and his arms were weak from the strain. Scully tried to pull herself up, but her arms wouldn't comply. "I can't," she gasped. "Hold on," Mulder said, as he got his body out to his waist, then swung his legs out. Scully's fingers were slipping on the hard ground. He grabbed her wrists as she slipped completely from the ledge. Mulder grimaced as he pulled Scully out of the crack. Once she was sprawled beside him on solid ground she whispered softly, "Mulder, we've got to stop." He looked at her, defeat was written all over his face. He hung his head and nodded. XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX 6:21 p.m. "It's all over," Scully whispered. Mulder nodded. She pulled herself onto his lap, and wrapped her arms around him. They were sitting on a bed in a cabin, after stumbling to it. He leaned back, and took her with him. "Mulder, please talk to me," Scully murmured, her eyes filling with tears. He hadn't said anything since he pulled her out of the crack. "I'm sorry, Scully," Mulder whimpered. "I can't protect you, I can't save you from this." "You've already saved me," Scully said, propping herself up on her elbows. "So many times." Mulder moved his hands to the small of her back. "You're too hard on yourself." She leaned her face toward him, so their foreheads rested against each other's. "I love you." He kissed her softly and slowly, then pulled away. He brushed his lips over her eyelids, then she opened her eyes. He rolled over, so that Scully was on her back, then continued kissing her softly. Mulder's hand slid under her shirt to cup her breast. Scully pressed her body closer to Mulder, and peeled his shirt off him. Her hands fumbled over his muscular arms, then down his chest. Mulder moved both of his hands down her back, then under the elastic of her sweat pants. His fingers pushed against the waistband of her panties, then under it. He guided both garments down her legs, then over her feet. Scully shifted under him, then unbuttoned his jeans. Mulder kissed her softly again, unclasping her bra from behind. She unzipped the jeans, then pushed both his jeans and his boxers down to his knees. Mulder kicked them off, then rolled her shirt up over her head. Mulder stared at her face, where her lips cracked a smile, but her eyes were bright pools of sorrow. "Mulder?" she whispered. "Yes?" His voice cracked. She stared at him for a long time. His eyes were rapidly filling with tears, then his hand caressed her cheek. "I love you," she murmured. "I know and I love you too," he whimpered. She kissed him slowly again, wrapping one arm under his arm to press against him, while the other made a path to his erection. She spread her legs further apart, and guided him into her. He moaned, then slowly moved within her. Scully gasped, then thrust against him. It went on for a while; they stared at each other passionately, moving in unison. Finally, Scully came and Mulder followed then they both lay still entwined in each other's arms. A loud scream cut through the silence. It didn't sound animal, nor human. They looked at each other calmly, then sank back into the comfort. Another scream sounded in the distance. Followed by another. XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX 7:13 p.m. The screams were still lingering in the air. Each time one erupted from somewhere in the distance, their blood ran cold. Mulder tightened his grip around Scully, and she moved in closer to him. She stared at the ceiling, allowing the slow tears to fall down the side of her cheek, around her ear. Mulder felt each one drop and couldn't do anything to comfort her. "I can't sleep," Scully murmured. "Me neither," Mulder replied. "Do you want to get up?" Scully nodded and sat up from his warmth, then shuddered at the cold. "We should start a fire," Scully said softly. Mulder agreed, and got out of bed. They slipped back into their clothes and made their way out into the living room. The cabin was almost identical to the one that they had stayed in. Mulder got the wood out of the small closet, while Scully found some newspaper and matches. Once the fire was crackling, Mulder and Scully curled up together in front of it. The flames danced around the room, creating shadows in the dark cabin. The screams were getting closer. They both tried to keep that off their minds, as they laid in the comfort of one another but it was almost impossible. Suddenly, something bounced against the outside wall. They both jumped to their feet and looked around in shock. The screams were right outside of the cabin. The creatures were throwing themselves against the sides of the house. Mulder grabbed Scully's hand, and pulled her into the small bathroom; it was the only room without a window. She started shaking and he wrapped his arms around her. He bolted the door, then stepped into the tub. Scully got in with him and they sat down in the furthest corner from the doorway. Mulder held her on his lap tightly and Scully buried her face in Mulder's neck. Both had tears streaming down their faces. Scully grasped the back of his shirt with her fingernails. "I don't want to die," she whispered. There was the sound of glass breaking, then the screams were louder still. Shrieking creatures ran through the small cabin, destroying everything in their paths, slashing the walls, the furniture, and the cupboards. Something thudded against the bathroom door. Mulder sucked in a breath. He rocked her in his arms. "I know," he repeated into her hair. She raised her head, and Mulder kissed her. "We'll be together again." She didn't question him, instead she lower her head once again, and listened to the beating of his heart. His hands gripped her back and he dropped his forehead to her shoulder. The screams were right outside the door. The aliens slashed and threw themselves at the door. Mulder held her closer. "I love you Mulder," she whispered. It was barely heard over the shrieks. "I love you too, Scully," Mulder murmured. She closed her eyes and waited for the screaming to be over. She could feel Mulder's tears on her shoulder. She tightened her grip around his neck. The bathroom door started to splinter and the screams roared in triumph. A moment later the door was no longer an obstacle for them, and they quickly approached the tub. The screams were deafening. Then there was nothing. XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX finis XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX email: mercury_999@hotmail.com