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Title: The Last Deception January 4th 1998 Frank lit his third cigar. "The plan will go ahead," the Elder spoke to the group. "After all, it's what she wants," he continued with a sly smile. "Mulder will be a problem." A female voice spoke from her seat. "Only to us. He will not interfere with the situation." Frank adjusted his position in his seat. "You are right. But what if she takes the easy way out?" the woman replied. "She won't. She wants this. She knows that it can't be without our intervention. She will proceed." The blonde haired man in his late thirties was confident that this plan would work. He smiled at the Elder. "Are we all in agreement?" "Yes. We shall proceed tonight. Marita, does Mulder still trust you?" the Elder questioned the woman. "He does. He will want to know what I know." The pale woman spoke in a monotonous tone. "You are able to tell him what you know," the Elder concluded. "Who was the donor?" Frank wrinkled his nose as he spoke. "We have still to decide. Clearly, it must be one of them. Someone within the FBI," the elder informed the group. Marita spoke up: "Mulder is too obvious. What other samples do we have?" "AD Skinner, William Mulder, Mr Duane Barry, both Frank and myself. - I'd rather prefer not to be the one. - I'm happily married with three children already." The Elder coughed uncomfortably. "What about dear Mr Bloodworth." Frank chuckled. Brian Johnson was often referred to by his pen name among the group. "That raises the possibility of investigation. What about Bill Mulder?" The Elder chuckled. Everyone looked up as Walter entered, nodding slightly. "What is being discussed?" he questioned as he sat. "The donor for our procedure. Interested, Mr Skinner?" Frank smiled teasingly at the balding man. "I'm in the wrong position to be considered. Suppose she performed a paternity test..." he trailed off. "Bill then. He's no longer among us, so there is no chance of any action being taken - should she conduct any tests." Frank looked over at the Elder. "I like that - pregnant with her partner's sibling," the Elder joked. "Do we have that sample?" Skinner asked. "We do. Shall we proceed tonight?" the Elder concluded. "The timing is right. Mulder and Scully are in DC until tomorrow night," Skinner informed the group. "How shall we implant?" Marita queried. "I have thought about this, and have come to the conclusion that we will send one of our own to stage a simple mugging. Agent Scully is knocked unconscious, brought here, is impregnated and is returned with the hour." The Elder looked at Skinner. "You can handle Mulder? We wouldn't him to be waiting for her now would we?" "I can handle him," Skinner replied. 7:48 PM Same Day Dana Scully slipped the notebook into her briefcase. "Night Mulder." She smiled at her partner. "Seeya tomorrow. Bright and early. We've got a few interviews to conduct before our flight." "Yup." The red-haired agent turned and left their shared office. Taking the lift up to the Ground floor, she passed AD Skinner. "A little late for you to be around isn't it sir?" The agent smiled. Her tall boss turned to her: "I'm behind in a ton of paperwork. A little early for you to be leaving though," he teased. He honestly thought that Mulder and Scully should just sell their apartments and move into the Bureau. "Leaving for Vancouver tomorrow night. I have to have an early night for a change." Scully smiled at her superior. He looked anxious and tired at the same time. "Mulder still down there?" he questioned, trying not to sound too suspicious. "Yes sir. I suspect that's where I'll find him tomorrow morning." She smiled that radiant smile again. Skinner forced himself to look away. If he didn't, he was sure to reveal something and loose all power within the group. "Night Agent Scully." He nodded to her. "Night sir," she returned. Stopping by the receptionist desk to collect her mail, Scully continued to walk to her car, sifting through the bundle: "Weekly newsletter, Re-certification was coming up again - on February 4th." Walking through the deserted car parks, Dana quickly located her vehicle and headed directly for it, planning a nice, hot bath when she got home. "She's gone. Her car just left the parking lot," Skinner spoke in a low tone. He had arrived back at his office just as the phone rang. "We're all ready. Keep Mulder occupied. Implantation will take longer than we expected. We'll have her back by eleven tonight." Skinner regarded the Elder's hoarse voice. "What should I do when she comes to me?" he proceeded. "You're her boss. Congratulate her -" "Not that you son of a bitch! She'll know that the government's behind this! What should I do when she comes to me?" Skinner had been concerned about his role in this plan from the beginning. He had only just managed to retain Mulder and Scully's trust when Mulder had named Section Chief Blevins. "Play it cool. You're her boss. Surely you've dealt with employees in this position before." The Elder trusted Skinner. "This is the last time I help you," Skinner growled softly. "There will be no need for another time." Skinner could almost *hear* the smile on the man's face. 8:15 pm Pulling up outside her apartment building, Scully got out. Reaching across to the other seat she grabbed her briefcase and locked the door. Looking at her watch, it was only 8:15, but the street was deserted. crossing the road to the building she noticed two guys walking briskly to the door. They looked alright. Both dressed in suits, clean cut. They exchanged looks and then discreetly watched her. Scully stared straight ahead and kept walking. "Can I help you?" she was starting to feel a little concerned. There were two strange men on either side of her - and they were blocking the entrance to her apartment "No, ah -" The man on her left started to say when the man on her right reached forward and quickly grabbed her gun from it's holster. Darting forward Scully started to open the door, but the older man on her left pushed it shut again. She would warn them and then proceeded with action. "May I please open the door." Scully tried to sound as strong as she could, but it was hard. Being unarmed made her feel more helpless than she liked to admit. She turned from the man on her left who was holding the door closed. She saw him nod at the man on her right who proceeded to grab her briefcase out of her hand. The next thing Scully knew, a hand had connected with her jaw. As she fell to the ground under the impact she heard her gun being dropped to the ground and saw the men running off as she faded into blackness. "She's down. We'll get her over to you," the older man spoke into the cell phone as the younger man picked up the unconscious form. "Well done," the elder spoke calmly. "Skinner's keeping an eye on Mulder, so take your time, but make sure no-one sees you." The mobile clicked and the man replaced it in his pocket. 10:27 PM "It's done. She'll be back in 30 minutes," Frank spoke to Skinner. "Good. Mulder said he'd be leaving around eleven." Marita entered the small room. She scanned around noting the unconscious woman lying on the trolley, the Elder reading a chart, Frank closing a phone and a man she didn't recognize take the woman's pulse. "Marita. Glad you could make it," Frank spoke. "Is it done?" shequestioned. "Yes. Everything went fine. We used a sample from Bill, as we said we would. Sorry you missed it," he joked the last sentence. "I didn't really *want* to see it, just to know if it was done. How is she?" Marita continued. The doctor looked up from what he was doing. "She's fine. Embryo seems comfortable enough." He smiled peeling off the latex gloves he was wearing. "Matthew Raymond, please to meet you." The young man smiled. "Marita Covarrubious. You performed the procedure?" she smiled a small smile. "Yes. Went perfectly." He returned the smile. "What if she aborts?" Marita couldn't resist asking. "If she does, she does. I doubt she will though. We have contacts that can see to it that this child is not aborted," he continued. "Fine. As long as all this won't be erased in a few weeks," Marita concluded. "Luck is on our side though. Her cancer rendered her infertile, so she will not be missing anything that could make her suspicious, which means she'll be unlikely to detect this pregnancy in time to abort." Matthew injected Scully with another sedative as he spoke. "Well, we're all finished here. I suggest we get her back within fifteen minutes. If we want to guarantee she won't wake up." The two suited men took over, while Marita continued to question the doctor. "How was the embryo implanted?" she asked quickly. "Through the abdomen. It was the safest way to go. Any other trauma and she may suspect rape - and therefore could detect this pregnancy." He nodded to her and promptly left the room. Pushing a strand of hair back off her face, Marita approached Frank. "They'll return her to her apartment?" "Yes. She'll be given the atropine injection to reversed the sedatives," he finished. Marita nodded a final time, then proceeded to turn and exit the room. "I'm not required any further am I?" Frank questioned the Elder. Upon receiving a 'no', Frank to turned and left. "You guys get her back, I'll finish up here," the Elder commended. 10:48 PM Skinner swallowed down the last mouthful of cold coffee and switched off his desk light. Locking the door behind him he proceeded down the corridor. Glancing out of the wide windows as he walked, he could see Mulder's car still parked in the parking lot. 10:52 PM Scully was brought out of darkness by a throbbing headache. Slowly standing to her feet she remembered what had happened. Picking her gun up off the ground she entered her apartment building. 'What is this world coming to." She sighed to herself. Luckily, all they had gotten was her briefcase, an easy thing to replace, and the notebook she'd had in it had was blank - she'd ripped all the previous scribblings out the day before. She'd even found herself lying on her keys. Unlocking her apartment door, she entered it, chained and locked the door behind her. Quickly checking her machine, she received the stimulating "You have no new messages". Entering her bedroom, she slipped off her jacket. Pulling out a duffle bag from her closet, she began filling it with clothes and toiletries. While Scully was packing on automatic, her mind drifted to the mugging. She'd would have thought those guys too 'dressy' to need a $140 bag. Pinning it down to the fact that they probably wanted to looked less obvious, she numbered herself off as just another statistic. 8:45 AM Dana Scully sat, her chin in her hands, gazing at the wall. "Scully, you're not that worried about re-certification are you?" Mulder had entered the office without his partner even having blinked. "Huh, no, of course not. Sorry." Scully brushed off, opening a file on her desk. "Coffee?" Mulder offered, placing the cup in front of her. "Thanks. You're perky this morning. What's up?" Scully gladly took the mug of steaming liquid. "Just enjoying life." Mulder smiled again. "Someone's over-confident about their physical," she teased. "Never had a problem in the past. No, I was just happy about the way life has turned out; your cancer's in remission, smoking man's dead and we exposed the leak inside the FBI." Mulder had sat down behind his desk and opened a case file. "I know what you mean," Scully contributed. Hearing a knock at the door, Mulder spoke to Scully. "Skinner. Some new case we've been put on." He turned away from her. "Come in." Their superior entered the basement office. He quickly glanced at Scully and then focused on Mulder. "I want you to drop whatever assignment you were on and assist the VCS with a kidnapping investigation," he spoke plainly and definently. "Why sir?" Scully questioned. She didn't mind throwing off the paranormal stuff, but wasn't exactly thrilled about having to work with Tom Colton again. He slowly turned his attention to her. "Agent Scully, it is my responsibility to place the agents under my supervision in the areas that I feel would be most beneficial to the investigations in process." He couldn't look at her. "Yes sir," She mumbled, taken aback by his stern tone. "Good. Now the two of you are to report to VCS 9:30 sharp." With that he turned and left. As Skinner walked back to his office, he regretted the move he had just made. He had been commanded to re-assign both agents to put them out of action for awhile. "What the hell he'd do that for?" Scully spat out the moment their boss had left the room. "You're asking me? And why'd he snap at you like that? That's not like Skinner at all," Mulder answered. January 15th 1998 "Scully? Dana?" Mulder gently shoke his partner. "Hmm?" she mumbled sleepily as she sat up. Scully hadn't intended to fall asleep. Last thing she remembered were that her eyes were drooping. "What time did you get to bed last night?" Mulder laughed. Scully paused and thought. She was exhausted last night so she delibratly went to sleep much earlier. "About 9:00" She yawned. "And what time did you wake up?" he continued. "6:30." Scully stood and replaced a few files back into the cabinet. January 27th 1998 "Agent Scully are you alright?" Holly asked worriedly. "Uh-huh," Scully spoke as she lifted her head from the toilet bowl, wiped her mouth, flushed and came out of the cubicle. "What's made you sick?" Holly asked. "Some gastro virus I suppose." Scully shrugged as she tided her hair. "What about your re-certification?" Holly asked. "I'll be fine," Scully replied. "Good luck." "You too." Scully smiled again and was out the door. February 13th "Skinner," Walter spoke as he picked up his phone. "Any news?" replied the Elder. "Nausea's kicked in. Received reports from two agents who caught her in the bathroom." He smiled. "Good, good. She hasn't considered it?" he asked worriedly. "Not to my knowledge. Came up on her physical naturally. I was able to make some quick changes though - it won't leak out," he returned confidently. "Excellent. Everything's going according to plan." With that the Elder hung up. February 28th Dana Scully switched on the overhead light and adjusted the microphone. "Victim's name is Susannah Foulds. Caucasian, female. Aged four years. Died from serial hemmoreaging, due to repeated blows to the head." She clicked the recorder stopped as she heard the door behind her open. Turning she was faced with none other than Tom Colton. Be professional Dana, always professional. "Dana Scully, MD." Were the first words from his mouth. "Good observation Agent Colton. Is there something I can help you with?" Scully replied cooly. "Just didn't think you'd still be doing this four years later," he replied slyly. "Well, I am, why?" Dana turned back to the body and picked up the camera. She continued taken pictures while Colton continued. "Thought you'd be married with 2 kids and swollen ankles," he humoured himself. "If thar's an offer Colton, I'll have to say thanks, but no thanks," Scully replied, trying not to voice her annoyance. "Afraid I can't obligue you Dana, married up two years ago," Tom shot back. "Was there a real reason for coming in here or was it purely to statisfy your over-inflated ego." Scully put down the camera and reached over for the scapel. "No, Brian wanted me to remind you to be neat, the family want an open casket - don't ask me why." Colton shrugged off. "Duely noted. You going to be going or can I get on with this?" Scully spoke impatiently. "No, please go ahead." Colton stepped back to walk. Scully returned to the body and switched on the tape recorder. "Height is 102cm, 58 pounds. Beginning Y-incinsion." Scully hadn't thought much about Emily until now, but seeing this child, only a year older than she had been brought it all back. Biting her lower lip she cut open the chest cavity. Sighing she turned to reach for the clamps when the nausea returned. Taking the clamps slowly, she returned to the body, swallowing hard. Clamping either sides of the chest cavity open, she swallowed again. Why does this suddenly smell like rotting meat? Scully knew her breakfast was going to hit the ground if she didn't get out of there fast. "Excuse me," She heard herself mummur to Colton as she left the room trying not to run. Dana bruskly hurried through the forensics office, leaving a trial of confused eyes behind her and finally made it to the bathroom. Thank goodness there was no-one else there. What the hell is going on here. She thought to herself as her stomach contents were emptied into the bowl. March 9th "Scully, you sure you're ok?" Mulder turned to his partner. She had just arrived - 43 minutes late - that was a first. "What Mulder, because I arrived late?" she snapped. Dana Scully was clearly pissed. "No, because you look like hell. Looked in the mirror lately?" he smiled. "It's this damn flu. I've had it for over eight weeks now - and I've been taking stuff for over five weeks," Scully spoke as she grabbed some reports out of her new briefcase and plonked them on the desk. "What time did you finish those?" Mulder looked through the folder. "About - ah..." Scully looked down at the pool of blood spitting onto the crisp white paper. "Scully, I - but - come on." Mulder led her out of the room and along the corridor before she could even speak. "Mulder, this is impossible. The last blood test revelled that the tumour had reduced to half its original size," she whispered, holding her nose. "I don't care - we're getting you to a hospital now," He commended. "We can't. What if the government are still behind this. It's too risky," she pleaded. "Fine then," he agreed. "Well then where are we going?" Scully questioned. "You'll see." Lone Gunmen's Lair "Byers we need your help." Mulder almost carried Scully into the Lone Gunman's hide-out. "Agent Scully are you alright," he asked immediately noticing the trickle of dried blood from her nose and the paleness of her skin. Mulder answered for her as he sat her down in a chair. "Something's going wrong. She had another nosebleed - those sons of bitches!" He threw his car key across the room in anger. The clatter brought Langley and Frohike out. "What's going on?" They spoke in unison. Byers ignored their question. "We've got to do a blood test to check out white cell counts etc," he spoke approaching Scully. "Go for it," she weakly answered, slipping off her jacket and pulling up her shirt sleave. Lone Gunmen's Office 10:28 am "Ok, it's just finished the analysis." Both Langley and Frohike joined him. Mulder had taken Scully to a washroom to clean up. The three men scanned over the data. "This is odd. White cell come is perfectly normal, but the HCG level is unusually high." Byers began chewing on his thumb-nail and reached for a text book. "Ok, HCG level indicates..." He continued scanning through a table until his finger was on the relating level. "My god." Byers re-checked to make sure he hadn't looked at the wrong column or anything. The response was enough to bring Frohike and Langley over. "What?" Frohike demanded. "This level of HCG indicates..." He ran his finger along the table. "Jesus!" Frohike and Langley responded together. "What's wrong?" Mulder walked quickly up to them. He had left Scully to finish in the bathroom by herself. "Ah, Mulder - ah. Put it this way - I can explain the nosebleed." Mulder had already read the result. He too went a pale colour. "Can you do a re-test?' He rushed on quickly. "Why?" Scully had exited the bathroom just in time to hear Mulder's last comment. Suddenly, four pairs of eyes were on her, scanning her up and down. "I can - but I don't think the machine's faulty," Byers answered Mulder's demand. "What is it?" Scully was standing behind the four of them. She had gone down the list of readings on the monitor. Scully swallowed hard. "Mulder - it's impossible," Scully whispered as she sat down. "Aren't you telling us more than we need to know there," Langley sneered. "Shut up. No, it's impossible. Her abduction and cancer treatment rendered her infertile. Or so we thought," Mulder whispered back. "Excuse me." Scully dashed again for the bathroom. "That explains why the flu tablets she was on weren't working," Mulder observed. "This is just unreal. After Emily, - how could this happen?" Mulder stated. "Yeah like you don't know." Langley still hadn't gotten the message. "Shut up!" Byers and Frohike hissed at him. "Admit it Mulder - you knocked her up." Langley grinned and was in hysterics. "Shut up!!" the three yelled at him. "Look Mulder, supposing that this is government related, I know an ob/gyn who's on our side - he'd be willing to check it out." Byers had already flipped open his telex. "Could you call him - explain the situation - no names, and make an appointment. I'll go check on Scully," Mulder spoke gratefully to Byers and headed across the room to the bathroom. "Sure." Byers picked up the phone. Knocking softly on the door Mulder went in. "Scully? You alright?' He spoke in a sympathetic tone. She sat, head in hands on the toilet lid crying. "I, um, well no." She turned to him. "Scully, anything weird happened lately?" Mulder spoke seriously. "Mulder, no. There are plenty of explanations for this. The cancer treatment could have heightened the HCG level - or the machine could be faulty-" Mulder cut her off. "But you've had all the symptoms. Nausea, lithargy, the nose bleed. Aren't you curious?" Mulder looked into her eyes. She met his glance. "Yes, I am, but -" Mulder cut her off. "Well then what are you waiting for? Byers knows a ob/gyn. If there's a chance this whole thing was devised within the government, then we could get it checked out without running a risk," Mulder finished. "I don't think that this is necessarily government related," she spoke slowly. "What? why not?" Mulder followed her out as she washed her face and dried her hands. "Back in February. The night before Skinner assigned us to the VCS, I was mugged outside my apartment. All they got was my briefcase, but I was knocked unconscious and woke up about two hours - I don't remember what happened in those two hours," she spoke. "Don't go jumping to any conclusions until we get this all checked out. Shall we go now?" Mulder tried to calm her down. They both looked towards the door when they heard the knock. "Yeah?" Mulder spoke. "Mulder, I rang Martin. He's says he can see her right away. Should I tell him you're coming?" Byers questioned. Scully nodded slowly at Mulder. "Yup, we'll be right there," Mulder replied. March 9th 12:45 PM "Agent Scully, Agent Mulder." Dr Martin Saddler addressed them as he re-joined them in his office. "Well, um, Agent Scully would you prefer I discussed this with you privately?" he asked. Scully sighed. "No, in front of Mulder is fine." "Well, yes you are indeed pregnant, but it was not from the mugging," he spoke slowly. Biting her bottom lip, Scully continued. "How do you know?" shewasn't sure she even wanted the answer. "Well, you're still a virgin, so obviously you weren't raped," he came out with. Scully blushed and looked down at her hands. "How long?" sheasked. "Nine weeks, give or take," he informed Agent Mulder rather than Scully. "Doctor, forgive me but, *how* was this child conceived as such?" Mulder was in shock - his investigational mode had taken over. "Implanted through the abdomen I would assume. Any puncture mark would have disappeared by now and would have been difficult to detect in the first place." The two men were now controlling the conversation, while Scully just sat there. "This question will no doubt come up - but um, um, who's child is it?" Mulder stuttered. "I haven't performed any genetic testing as of yet - but if Agent Scully wants to I could." He turned to the red head bent over in the other chair. Scully looked up slowly, there were tears in her eyes threatening to flow over. "Could you run a paternity test? Is there any chance of immediate abortion?" Mulder wasn't even prepared for that one. "I could - I'll need to take a sample of the amniotic fluid," he paused. "With regards to abortion, I think you should give it a few more weeks. I can perform a paternity test as soon as you wish - I wouldn't go rushing into anything until then," Martin explained. "Now?" Scully looked over at Mulder. "Certainly. If your partner doesn't mind waiting." Martin turned to Mulder. "Of course not. Um, Scully, would you like me to tell your Mom?" Mulder offered. Knowing this would be hard enough for Scully to accept let alone have to tell her mother. "Wait - if I terminate there will be no need to inform her," Scully replied quickly. "Sure." Mulder smiled comfortingly at her and Scully followed Dr Saddler into the exam room. Dr Martin Saddler's office "Ok, sorry about the wait. It took longer than expected as the father was deceased before fertilisation." Dr Saddler entered his office again carrying a small yellow folder. "Who is it?" Scully rushed on. "Ah, you see, um. Agent Scully - I really feel that I should speak privately to you." Martin hesitated. "Why? May I read it myself?" Scully had stood and reached across the desk. "Sure." Martin handed her the file. Mulder heard the gasp and stood up in time to stop Scully hitting the ground. "Scully? Scully." Mulder tried unsuccessfully to awaken his partner. "Can you call an ambulance?" Mulder directed Dr Saddler. Martin rang an ambulance while Mulder picked up the unconscious Scully and lay her on the couch. Mulder was able to get a glance at the file: Maternal: Dana Katherine Scully 2/23/64 - Paternal: William Brian Mulder 4/5/33 - 2/1/95 "Oh hell!" Mulder exclaimed as Martin hung up the phone. "It is your father?" he questioned hesitantly. "Yes. He was murdered about three years ago. Oh my god!" Mulder exclaimed. "Byers mentioned government involvement - what are you thinking?" Martin pressed. "I think this is someone's sick plan to split us up. But why my father -" Mulder was utterly disgusted. "Someone out there has a sick mind." Martin gently took Scully's pulse. "Is she ok?" Mulder re-directed his attention to his partner. "She will be. Her body just crashed. How heavy is your workload?" Dr Saddler consoled the concerned agent. "Well, I was always amazed she could keep up before this - let alone adding pregnancy to the equation." "I'm surprised she didn't detect it sooner. Was she ill at all?" the Doctor carried on checking Scully's vitals as he spoke. "Well, she's just recovering from a cancerous tumour that threatened her life. She recently lost a daughter, I don't think she has even returned to her normal self yet. "She was convinced she had a bad bout of the flu, but now that I think about it what she had was morning sickness and fatigue." "She had a child? How?" given the earlier awkward conversation with Scully, Martin was amazed by what he was hearing. "Conceived after she was abducted by our government." Mulder was taken back to the few days that he had known Emily. She had certainly changed his life. Just seeing her little face light up when he had made the Mr Potato-Head face made him smile. "Oh. And now she has to pick herself up and deal with this," Martin consoled. "What's keeping that ambulance?" Mulder grumbled. "It's ok Agent Mulder. She's probably better off unconscious. Her body needs the rest." Martin tried to calm the man down. "Those bastards. Why her - she's never been a part of my investigations. This is the cruelest form of torture. What are your thoughts on abortion?" Mulder changed the subject. "Personally I find it very difficult to deal with. Professionally, it's a little dodgy considering there are two fetus' involved." Martin's voice lowered. "T-two? Twins?" Mulder stuttered. "Yeah. I picked it up on the ultrasound," Martin stated. "I assume cancer treatment rendered her infertile?" Mulder nodded to Martin. "That's what makes me hope she won't abort," Mulder concluded. Their conversation was cut short when the ambulance arrived and Mulder left with Scully for Northeast Georgetown. Margaret Scully's residence "Matthew, Matthew, where's Mommy?" Maggie cradled the two month old baby in her arms. Ring ring ring "Shall we get that sweetie?" Maggie spoke softly as she carried the baby over to the phone. "Hello?" Maggie answered. "Mrs Scully, it's Mulder," Mulder replied slowly. Maggie motioned for Tara to come and take Matthew. "Fox, what's the matter?" Maggie was immediately concerned. "Look, Dana's not well. It's nothing serious, I just think that you may want to come and see her," Mulder calmly informed Mrs Scully. "Fox, what happened to her?" The anxiety grew in her voice. "She collapsed about an hour ago and was taken to hospital. I can't really tell you much over the phone, it's probably best if you speak with her," Mulder stated. "Northeast Georgetown?" Maggie questioned worriedly. "Yes," Mulder replied. "I'll be there within the hour." Maggie hung up. Turning back to Tara, and Bill, who had just entered the room, she told them of the conversation. "Would you like a lift Mom - you don't know how long you might be," Bill quickly offered. Bill had come to terms with a lot about his sister and her partner since Matthew's birth. "Yes - if you could just drop me off," Maggie thanked her son. Northeast Georgetown Same Day 4:47pm Missy carried Emily over to her. "Dana, you must go back to them." Dana took Emily. "Missy, I lost Emily." Dana softly played with Emily's bangs. "It's not that I wouldn't love to be able to have a child, just not like this." Mulder will be there for you. So will Mom." Missy stepped closer. "Why did I lose Emily?" Dana looked into her sister's eyes. "You know why, Dana. It wasn't a fair life for her," Missy replied. Emily looked up curiously at her mother. "Mommy, I'm here now. Go back to Mulder. He needs you," the child spoke softly. "You must go back. I will look after Emily." Melissa reached across and Emily crawled back into her arms. "Thank-you, Missy," Dana spoke as she turned and walked back into the darkness. "Dana, it's Mom. You alright?" Maggie held her daughter's hand as she woke up. "Mom, why are you here?" Dana slowly turned her attention to her mother. "Fox called me. He told me to speak with you. He's just outside if you want to see him," she soothed her daughter. "Where am I?" Scully sat up quickly, almost with fear. "You're in Northeast Georgetown. Fox said you were ill." Maggie ended the last sentence as a question, hoping her daughter would pick up on it. Scully suddenly remembered what had happened and sat up quickly in bed. Maggie grasped her daughter by the upper arms. "Dana, what's wrong? Lie back. Do you want to see Fox?" Maggie was confused but could still see the helplessness in her daughter's eyes. Scully slowly let her eyelids fall closed and relaxed back upon the pillow. Mulder then entered the room with Dr Saddler behind him. Maggie turned to them. "Fox, what's going on?" she demanded. "Has she woken?" Martin stepped forward to introduce himself. "Yes. Who are you?" Maggie looked at the man. "Dr Martin Saddler. Dana was at my office when she collapsed," he informed Mrs Scully. "Why? Why was she seeing you?" Maggie turned from the pair to look at her daughter. "I'm afraid I need to speak with your daughter for awhile privately," Martin spoke softly. "Mrs Scully? Would you like to get a coffee with me," Mulder offered. "Thank-you." Maggie cautiously left the room with Mulder. Martin took the seat next to Scully's bed. "Agent Scully?" he questioned. Slowly opening her eyes she looked at him. "I don't want this," she spoke softly but defiantly to him. "Dana, I don't feel comfortable with this. You haven't taken long enough to consider all the options. Adoption?" "I don't want to be pregnant." She was weakening in attitude. Martin paused. "Now, forgetting the means of conception and parentage, you must consider the fact that you are unable to have a child as far as you know. But now you are pregnant. Do you really want to destroy this chance?" Martin adjusted in his seat. She sighed. I know. But, I can't - I'm single and, my job...." Dana trailed off. "Lots of women do it alone, and you can get maternity leave. Think of this as a once only opportunity." He smiled softly at her, knowing she had been convinced. He noticed the smile that crossed her face. "I suppose it would be the only way," she responded. "Look, John Byers told me of the situation you and your partner are in. I am willing to take you on as a patient confidentially - if you want," Martin offered kindly. "Thank- you." She waited. "I don't think that this was planned to work out as I would want it." Scully thought. "Maybe it was just their way of reminding you that they are in ultimate control - there is nothing they can't do," Martin spoke with a disgusted tone. Scully looked from the window to her stomach and back to Martin. "Would you be able to find Mulder?" she whispered. "Sure" Martin smiled. He then turned and left the room. Scully's Hospital Room "Mulder, I'm going through with this," she informed her partner. Mulder nodded solemnly. "You think I'm making a wrong decision don't you?" Scully sighed. "No - quite the opposite," Mulder jumped in immediately. "I think you need this. I'm glad you're not going to abort." He smiled at her. "Well, it's just - I realised with Emily - I grew so close to her within a week - as soon as I knew she was my daughter. I'll admit this isn't the order I like to do this in, but..." she trailed off with a small smile. Mulder reached for her hand. He squeezed it and placed it along with his over her lower abdomen as he lent forward and gently kissed her forhead. "Dana, please tell me what's -" Maggie had rushed into the room, Martin trying to stop her. She had tried to be patient, but she knew she was being left out of the loop. "Mom, uh," Scully looked over at Mulder for help. He quickly removed his hand and looked innocently at Mrs Scully. "Fox, - were you just - Dana?" Maggie was half excited and half wary at once. "Scully?" Mulder quickly gave the responsibility back to her as he rose from his seat. She was not sure how to say this. The words didn't sound right in the same sentence. "Mom, I, um, I, I'm pregnant." There. She had said it. Maggie stayed still for a minute. Looking at Fox then at Dana for any sign that this was good or bad news. "Dana, I thought you couldn't -" Margaret was confused. "Mom, maybe you should sit down." Dana gestured to the now empty chair. "Scully, we'll leave you two alone for awhile." Mulder indicated for Martin to follow him out of the room. "Thanks." Scully smiled back. Walter Skinner's Office Forcing the lock, Mulder was able to gain access to Agent's records. Scanning the selection he soon found the one he was after and opened the file. Reading down the list of details, he quickly placed the re-certification records into his coat pocket and replaced the file. Byers' residence "Who is it?" Byers spoke anxiously from behind the door. "Mulder, I need your help." Byers quickly let him in and showed him to the kitchen table. "So what did you get?" Byers asked as he unfolded the report. "The records from Scully's re-certification. Can you check through it for me - see if anything's missing. Martin estimated her to be in about the ninth week, so it should definitely show up here." Quickly interpreting the data, Byers picked up the phone. "What?" Mulder replied already worried, but received a head shake for his concern. "Ok, yes, HCG level is 0.4, and iron count is 17.3. It doesn't? Yes he is? You sure she is? Ok, I'll tell him. Thanks Saddler." Byers replaced the phone and turned to Mulder. "Ok, you want this straight?" Mulder nodded. "Martin said that the values have been manually altered, but by someone who didn't have a clue what they were doing. They have reduced the HCG level - which is a chemical that is stimulated by pregnancy, but they didn't think to adjust the iron count. Mulder, who would have done this?" Byers questioned the agent. "Whoever didn't want this pregnancy detected. Whoever is behind this." Mulder took the file from Byers. "Where did you get this?" Byers didn't receive an answer. Mulder had simply murmured something about Skinner and dashed from the building. Skinner's apartment Mulder had to fight the urge to just kick down the door, but decided to ring like a gentleman. He had already decided his plan of action, before the man got to the door. "Agent Mulder?" the tall man spoke in a tired tone. "I realise it's late sir, could I come in and talk, it's quite urgent." Mulder noticed the man's hesitation. "Is something wrong?" Skinner spoke as he allowed the Agent inside. "I was just looking for an explanation," Mulder spoke casually. "For what?" Skinner was too tired to have worried about his weapon or even to consider the man's intentions until he was staring at a gun. "As to how my seemingly infertile partner is now pregnant. And as her altered re-certification medical report was found in your office, I think I've come to the right person," he hissed. Skinner just stared at Mulder why he thought. Mulder had discovered this, why did they ever doubt that he would. If he told Mulder, he would be found out and murdered, if he didn't, he sensed Mulder would just shoot him on the spot. At least telling would buy him some time. "Agent Mulder, I was involved, but involuntarily. I am willing to tell you what I know, if you'll get the gun out of my face." Mulder paused. As much as he loathed this man right now, he still somehow trusted him. Skinner had always been on their side. Lowering his weapon, he gestured for Skinner to take a seat. Mulder too sat and whispered at the man: "Start talking." Skinner sighed and began his story. "Agent Mulder, after Blevins was named, they realised how close you had come to naming me. This made me of great interest to them. You have to understand Mulder. They don't care who they kill, or why as long as they reach their goal." "To cease my investigations," Mulder filled in. "Yes. They can't just do it the easy way by simply killing you or Scully, they want to make it painful and to put you in a position where you have no choice." Mulder nodded as a sign to continue. "They realised the power I had over the two of you, so they roped me in on their plot. I have attended meetings, and handled documents directly related to Scully's impregnation." Mulder stared directly at the man. "You know who the father is?" "Yes. Mulder, I had no input into that. There were lots of names flying around. Mine, yours, the Smoking Man's. They chose your father because he was dead and since he was related to you, it would lead to less investigating." "Why weren't you or I chosen?" Mulder questioned. "I wasn't chosen, because of my involvement, and you weren't because they didn't want to be doing either or you any favours." "Is this as far as they are intending on going?" Mulder demanded again. "As far as I know. They assumed that this would be the cruelest form of torture and that you would surely back off after this." Skinner lowered his tone. "And if I didn't?" Mulder replied coolly. "They would take the child," Skinner shot back. "We're talking about children. It's twins. So, they are only at risk if I proceed with my investigations?" Mulder questioned. "At the last meeting they decided not to harm the children after they were born. Rather to hold them over your head as a threat should you think about taking action," Skinner informed his agent. Mulder's rage exploded again and he shoved the gun back in Skinner's face: "What else do you know?" "That fertilisation took place in the afternoon of January 4th and that implantation was at about 9:30 that night. The night I came down to see you in your office - after Scully had left." Mulder remembered well. He had suspected the man to have had some ulterior motive as it was only the second time he had come to their office. "What else?' Mulder spoke sternly, but had lowered his gun. "They never intented to impregante her with twins. You'll find that they're mono-zygotic and an accidental result of cell division," Skinner informed him. "Oh - so you're trying to persuade me that they do have heart. After abducting, medically raping, imprenating, killing that resulting child at the age of three, and finally re-impregnating her they didn't want to be over-genourous by giving her two for the price of one, as it may be." Mulder was steaming. "Anything else?" he quickly persued. Skinner thought for awhile and hesitated. Mulder saw this and immediately picked up on it. "Marita is involved." Skinner knew that Mulder had trusted her. "What?" This had surprised him. "I'm sorry Mulder. I knew you trusted her." Skinner could see the pain this man was trying to hide. Everyone he trusted had let him down. Mulder reached into his pocket and retrieved his phone. Dialling the familiar number, he waited.... "Sorry to wake you. No, I haven't. Look, could you meet me at the hospital, I think I can shed some light on this thing. An hour? Ok. Thanks Mrs Scully. Bye." Mulder casually slipped the phone back into his pocket. "You heard that. Now let's go. You've got two people to talk to." Mulder was about to grab the man but decided against it. Skinner stood up and walked towards the door. "Mulder, for the record I'm sorry. I'm sorry I didn't tell you or Scully, but you know the power of these people. I'm a dead man from now on anyway." Skinner spoke in defeat. It was only a matter of time before they found out and killed him. Mulder was stopped by this. He didn't understand his own feelings but he could not feel angry at this man. It was true. He knew what these people were capable of, and the pressure they would have put his boss under. "I do understand sir. I'm angry at the bastards behind this, not at you. I just hope for your sake Scully feels the same way." Scully's hospital room "I'm sorry Scully" Skinner spoke softly. "Sir. Why did you let them rope you in in the first place?" Scully had taken in all the previous information but had one question. "Because I didn't have a choice," he answered honestly. She seemed satisfied with that, but continued. "So what now? Are you going to run right back to them?" she spoke softly but strongly. "I have already told them that I will no longer be a party to this. It's just a matter of time before they act on it." The AD looked across at Margaret who had been quiet throughout his confession. She looked back at him now with pure hatred in her eyes. Mulder sensed that they had heard enough and escorted the man from the room. "I'll be in touch," Mulder spoke threateningly and left the man in the hallway. He returned to find Dana crying desperately in her mother's arms. He then suddenly rememered that Scully didn't know about the twins. "Scully. There's something else ..." Mulder approached the pair. Mulder was amazed by the scene that followed: Margaret slowly detached herself from her daughter and stood facing him, her arms folded in confrontation. "Fox, don't you think you've done enough to hurt Dana. She was assigned as your partner five years ago and because of your investigations over that time she's been abducted, experimented upon, developed cancer, lost a daughter, abducted, and finally made pregnant. There is only a certain level of tolerance within me, and right about now I think it's just been topped." Mulder stood there, his mouth open in disbelief. She continued, ignoring Dana's protests. "If you really want to help my daughter I suggest you leave. It is her connection to you that has caused all this and I feel that if this bond was broken she just might be able to have this child and get on with her life without fear." Scully chose this moment to interrupt. "Mom, no, it's not Mulder -" Maggie jumped in again. "It isn't? Dana, how can you say that. Ever since you were partnered with him, all this has happened. For what? Fox, I want you to leave. Leave Dana and our family. For my daughter's safety," she had spoken, never losing her nerve throughout the speech. Scully cried as she spoke. "Mom, no." Mulder had glanced at Mrs Scully and then back to Scully. He had actually understood what this woman was saying. Unlike the time when Bill had told him what he thought, Mulder knew Mrs Scully spoke the truth. He was aware that he had nodded blankly as he approached Scully's bed and took her hand. He was conscious when he told her that her mother was right. Mulder heard Scully's pleas and he walked from the room. Defeated. Wounded deeply. Quantico Medical Unit "Night Agent Scully," Deb Miller spoke sweetly. "Night Deb," Scully replied. She slipped the folder into her bag and flung it over her shoulder. She turned off her desk light and locked the office door. Walking down the now familiar corridor's of Quantico she found herself thinking of Mulder. It had been six weeks since she had seen him and had tried to contact him numerous times, leaving messages on his answering machine, sending letters, all receiving no response. She had spoken with Skinner who had said that Mulder had rung up and resigned the day after he confessed. Skinner had told her that he hadn't even bothered to come in and get his stuff, had just vanished. Glancing at her watch, Scully decided she'd take a trip herself. Only a few people at the beauru knew she was pregnant. Skinner, Deb and Holly. Skinner and Holly knew the truth about the conception, but Deb just assumed Scully had a boyfriend. Thank god that baggy trench-coats were comon around FBI Agents and that the weather warranted it. She knew it wouldn't last, having already had the "Aren't you warm in that thing" comment a few times. ** FBI Basement Unlocking the office door, Scully was surprised to find the office exactly as she had seen it last. She walked across to Mulder's desk and sat down. Opening a drawer, she found that everything had been left. That wasn't like Mulder. All their current files still sitting on the shelf for anyone to see. Skinner had been right. Shrugging as she stood, Scully gazed one last time around the room remembering all the jokes and tears they had shared. She then realised that despite what her mother had said, she needed Mulder. Locking the office quickly, she took the elevator up to the Ground floor; Skinner's office. Walking briskly along the corridor she was made aware of two things. One, that her feet were killing her and two that Tom Colton was walking in the opposite direction towards her. Fighting the persistant urge to slip a hand to her back in support she approached him. He was obviously in the mood for a chat and warmly greeted her. "Hi Dana. How are you?" The man had manners. "I'm fine thanks Tom, you?" While she wasn't in the mood for a conversation, she couldn't miss the fact that the man was actually being genuinely nice. "Never better. I wanted to apologize for my pig-headishness during that autopsy. Superiors were on my back for not realising the girl was in an abusive sutiation earlier and I needed to blow off some steam. Scully sighed, her feet threatening to explode inside her shoes. "That's ok. I'm used to it," she spoke coolly. She justed wanted to get to Skinner's office before she collapsed. Colton obviously wasn't ready to end this conversation. "Hey, I was wondering if you could help stop a rumour that's flying around in VCS. Did Mulder quit?" The first time he hadn't added 'spooky' to it. "Yes, he did actually. I'm back at Quantico." She smiled softly. "Oh." Tom spoke without a hint of sarcasm. "Yeah, well, - " Scully spoke. "Dana, you doing anything tonight?" he asked out of the blue. "No, why?" she replied giving in and slipping a hand to her back. "Would you mind having dinner?" he rushed on. "Tom, I thought we decided that we weren't going to - " He jumped in innocently. "No, I know. It's just that I haven't seen you for awhile and I wanted to have a chat." Scully glanced around the corridor quickly. She didn't have anything against Colton, and he had apologised over the autopsy thing. But then again, she didn't have the energy for it. "About dinner - maybe some other time. I'm kind of busy at the moment, with the job change and all." Well it was true. "Oh, ok. Some other time." Colton's face fell and he walked away. Scully continued down the corridor towards Skinner's office. Skinner's Office "Come in." Skinner spoke as Scully knocked on the door. She entered and approached his desk before he could speak. "Scully, I wasn't excepting to see you. Anything wrong." Walter closed a file, put down his pen and gestured for her to take a seat. "Thank-you. It's about Mulder sir," she spoke directly. "Scully, I don't know what's happened. He called me the day after you were released from hospital said that due to your condition he thought it best if he resigned from the Beauru. I called round to his apartment one night - and it's been cleaned out." "I was wondering if you had any way of locating him?" she looked desperatly at Skinner. "Ordinarily I would say no. Let me say that I apologize for what has happened. I'll see what I can find out." Scully smiled as she stood. "Thank-you sir." She left quickly and Walter returned to the file he had been studying when he was interupted by the phone. "Skinner," he answered casually. "You haven't kept us informed," the elder spoke slyly. "I've already told you that I'm not going to be a party to this any longer." "You failed to inform us that Agent Scully detected this pregnancy. You failed to inform us that Mulder had resigned from the bureau because of it." Skinner sighed. It was time to count down the minutes he had left. "I told you that I'm not working with you any longer. I am no longer your message boy," Skinner hissed into the phone and hung up. Quickly locking his desk drawer he left his office for the night. Two weeks later Walter had just clicked the 'send' button on his mail program when he heard the footsteps in the corridor. Slipping his gun from it's holster he cautiously approached the door. The footsteps sounded as if they had stopped just outside his door. Walter carefully pressed himself against the frame and cocked his weapon. When he heard the knock he peered into the peep-hole. Marita. Not thinking her capable of causing him any harm he casually opened the door, paused with a questioning look and gasped in pain as he felt the hot metal bullets pierce him flesh. The last thing he remembered before everything went black was being pulled back into the room and seeing the door close infront of him. Dana Scully's apartment Scully found herself enjoying nothing more these days than to lie in bed of a night and whisper to her daughters. She had been informed of the ultrasound discovery the day she was released from hospital and being the organized person that she was elected to find out the sexes. Her mother had begun showering baby gifts on her when she was only two months pregnant. Glancing around the rooms she saw matching pink dresses, teddy bears and the double stroller - a recent treat still packaged and leaned up against the bookshelf. "I think you two would've liked Mulder. He was really good with Emily. He'll be back, when Skinner can find him." At that moment the phone rang. "Hello?" Scully sighed casually, assuming it would only be a wrong number at this hour. "Agent Scully. This is Kimberly. There has been some bad news," she paused. Scully learned from those three sentences that it either involved Skinner or Mulder - and that one of them wasn't going to come out of it alive. "What's happened?" Dana spoke slowly. "Assistant Director Skinner was found dead in his aparment about ten minutes ago." Kim spoke simply. "How?" Scully felt an instant pang of guilt. "Shot, point blank range to stomach." Kimberly had never been as close to Skinner as Scully or Mulder. "Same apartment?" Scully questioned. "Yes." Kim spoke surprisingly. "I'm going over there. Thanks for telling me," she spoke, emotion still not having set in. "Ok." Kim concluded and hung up. Scully quickly dressed and grabbed the trench-coat on her way out. * Skinner's apartment 10:50 pm Seeing the coroner's van loading the body, Scully raced out of the car, forgetting the trench-coat altogether. "Wait!" She called to the tall blonde haired man as she reached the van. He turned around in surprise having no idea who this woman was, but noting that she was definitely pregnant. "Ma'am I'm awfully sorry, are you related?" he waited for her to catch her breath. "Just friends, tell me the extent of the injury." Scully was sounding even to herself like an FBI Agent. "Fatal gun-shot would to the lower abdomen, point blank range. He died as a result of extreme blood loss more than the injury itself. The FBI's up there now." "Will there be an autopsy?" she pressed on, knowing that she was now sounding like any old doctor. "I'd say not. Just a retrieval of the bullet for cross-matching. You're welcome to come down to view the body later. His wife is talking with the police and arranging a viewing and burial procedures." He recognized this woman from somewhere, something to do with work. "Are you an FBI Agent?" he questioned. "Yes, actually, we've probably crossed paths at some point. Thanks for your help." Scully turned and entered the apartment building. There was crime scene tape and officers and people everywhere. But she was still in shock. Deciding to take the lift versus stairs she had awhile to think. She had to let Mulder know somehow, but she had no way of contacting him. Damn her mother. Approaching Skinner's apartment she suddenly remember she'd forgotten the coat. Darn it. Her condition was pretty obvious unless you haven't seen her for about five years. Had it been a singleton pregnancy no-one would know. Contemplating whether to turn around and get it she was accosted by a distraught Sharon Skinner. "Oh Agent Scully, who did this?" she wailed. "I have a fair idea Mrs Skinner but we won't find them. I'm sorry about your husband." "It was the government wasn't it. The same ones who shot him last time." Scully could only nod. Sharon glanced down at the obvious curve of her stomach. "How far along are you?" Sharon asked casually. "About 18 weeks," Scully informed blankly. "18 weeks what?" No-one had seen Tom Colton enter the hallway until his mischievous voice was heard. "Oh. Great, a spooky junior!" he exclaimed in surprisement. Scully groaned in despair and headed into Skinner's apartment. Surveying the scene the only thing out of the ordinary was the fact that his computer mail program was open. Scanning the incoming messages she gasped when she saw the return address on the latest: Alone@nexus.com.au Looking though the trays, Scully learnt that Mulder and Skinner had been writing to each-other even since he left! Lone Gunmen's Lair 17th June 1998 9:07 am Scully impatiently pounded on their door, until she saw Langley's long blonde hair and bold black glasses emerge. It didn't take him long to come up with a suitable welcoming remark: "To what do we owe the pleasure of this unexpected expectancy? No pun intended." Scully simply raised an eyebrow and entered the office as Byers and Frohike looked up from their work in surprise. "Dana, is something wrong?" Frohike asked in concern. "Mulder's gone. My mother was a little tactless, and Mulder took it too personally. He resigned from the bureau about twelve weeks ago, I haven't been able to locate him. AD Skinner was killed last night, and as it turns out, Mulder and Skinner had been e-mailing each-other ever since he left. Mulder was using the address Al...@nexus.net.au, I need you to find out everything you can." "Sure, we'll get right on it." Byers smiled and turned back to his computer.
Lone Gunman's Lair "Ok, the user who opened the account was a Mr M F Luder, very clever Mulder, and the address is 4 Branson Crs Cabramatta, New South Wales, Sydney, Australia," Byers reeled off. "Mulder in Australia," Langley scoffed. "Thank-you!" Scully exclaimed as she lent over and kissed Byers, grabbed the print-out and hurried out of the office, leaving the three men wide-eyed. "These women with buns in the oven are all the same," Langley snickered. "I hope that was just a hormonal thing," Byers murmured. Dr Saddler's Office "Dana, I'm not comfortable with this - what if something goes wrong." "I'm perfectly healthy, right on track - why won't you just let me go. I have to do this." Dana pleaded with Martin, who was not keen on her travelling half way across the world after her partner. "I can't allow you too - with multiples, there are just too many things that can go wrong. 90% of all multiple pregnancies are premature by at least eight weeks!" Martin sighed. He understood her dedication to her partner, but he was all too aware of the risk factors. "Look, I'm a doctor. If there's any trouble I can just see someone down there. I promise you it will only be for a week or so. They do have hospitals down there. I'll be fine. I just have to find him." Scully was desperate. Finally, she had found out where Mulder was, and she wasn't allow to leave the country without medical clearance. "I can't let you leave. I'm sorry. I understand, but I won't allow you to take the risk." Martin stated. He was running out of reasons. "Your being ridiculous! There is nothing wrong with me!" Scully was losing it. If she couldn't get confirmation from Saddler, she would just write the letter herself. "Dana. I can't believe you're being so selfish!" Martin was used to dealing with angry, frustrated, pregnant women - but never one as stubborn or determined as Agent Scully. "I don't have to stand here and listen to you put a guilt-trip over me. Goodbye." She hurriedly left the room, furious." She didn't need his help to get to Mulder, anyway. Washington DC International Airport "Next please," the young woman behind the check-in counter called. Seeing the obvious pregnant woman approach she reached for the Maternity Disclaimer. "Dana Scully. I'm booked on the 6:40 to Sydney." She spoke calmly, displaying her driver's license. "Do you have a confirmation letter from your doctor?" Scully casually handed the small, crisp envelope to the check-in assistant. She briefly opened it, glanced over it and copied down some details, and finally stapling it to her ticket. "I'll have to get you to sign this disclaimer." She spoke warmly as she handed Scully the pink piece of paper. It was a standard form, simply legal protection against the company, ensuring that you wouldn't hold the airline liable for any incidents. Quickly signing the form, Scully was issued a boarding pass, and began the journey to the boarding gate, suddenly realizing that with all the commotion of organizing flights and packing, she hadn't rung her mother. Considering that fact that her Mom now rang her on a daily basis, she would be agonized if Dana just disappeared. Locating a pay-phone, she quickly dialed the number. "Hi, Mom, it's me." "Dana, hi sweetie, are you ok?" "I'm fine Mom, but I'll be away for awhile." Scully was hesitant to tell her where she was going. "Where Dana? What for?" Maggie could always tell when she wasn't been told the entire story. "Mom, now don't get upset, but I've found Mulder's location - and I've got to get him back." Scully checked her watch impatiently. "Dana, I understand. You know how sorry I am for what I said. Where exactly are you going?" Maggie continued. She trusted that her daughter wouldn't take any unnecessary risks. "Australia, Mom. It's ok, I'll be back in a week or so. Just as soon as I can get Mulder back." Scully was in a hurry, the flight had started boarding and she was still miles away from the gate. "Dana! That's half way across the world! What did Dr Saddler say?" Margaret wasn't happy about her daughter taking this big a risk. "Mom, the flight's boarding - I have to go. I'll be fine." Dana didn't mean to shrug her off, but time was running out. "He didn't want you to go, did he?" she stated. "He didn't. Mom, I have to go. I'll call you as soon as I can. Bye." Dana had to get on the plane. "I love you Dana, take care. Say hello to Mulder." Practically running to the boarding gate, Scully received a few surprised looks as she bustled herself onto the aircraft, the flight attendants fussing over her. "Buzz if you need anything Ms Scully." Her assigned flight attendant, Susannah was particularly thoughtful. "Thank-you." Scully replied sweetly as she settled into her seat and tried to make herself comfortable. With an oversized basketball protruding from her middle, it wasn't easy. 18th June 1998 "You told me to inform you of any bizarre activities. Well she wanted to leave the country. She came to me, requesting me to fill out a medical clearance form, but I was able to plausibly refuse to." Martin had known to call Frank as soon as anything like this happened. "Do you have any idea why?" The older man responded. "She went after Mulder," Martin replied coolly. "Where is he?" Frank continued. "Australia." "We'll investigate it. Good work." Frank hung up the phone and turned to the group. "I need you to all check through travel manifests for the previous 24 hours to Australia. She's left the country." Frank had immediately come to the conclusion that Scully would have written the medical clearance herself, regardless of what Martin had said. 25 Minutes later "I have it." Marita re-entered the room and joined the small group of people. "When?" Frank didn't like this. She was out of their reach, and with Fox Mulder. "She left on the 6:40 flight to Sydney, Australia, flight 512, Qantas Airlines." Marita passed the flight details to Frank. "Damn." He threw it across the room and picked up his phone. Martin answered quickly. "Listen, she left the country an hour ago, I need to know of the situation," Frank demanded. "She's doing fine, all things considered. There are a few upcoming risks, but that's her problem now." Martin sighed. Despite his involvement, he had grown to pity Dana. "Thanks." Frank hung up the phone and returned once-again to the excited group. "Ok, Martin said everything's ok, we just have to find a way to monitor her. Any good contacts down under?" He questioned. "A few. We'll inform them, and instruct them to keep track of her," the Elder responded.
Flight 512 to Sydney, Australia Having gained access to Skinner's computer again, Scully had been able to receive print-outs of the letters between Mulder and Skinner. There was probably about fifty of them, indicating that the pair had been much closer than Scully realized. Scanning over, she realized that she had been the center of conversation more often than not. They also kept referring to 'the father' and she made the horrifying realization that both Mulder and Skinner knew who had fathered her children, and by the tone of the letters, Mulder was disgusted by it, and she would also be. Interrupted by Susannah, Scully slipped the notes back into her cabin bag. "How are you - everything alright?" she questioned. "Yes, thank-you." Scully re-assured her as she stood up to go to the bathroom. Plane seats were unbearable, even in business class. Just the walk to and from the bathroom felt good, although squeezing into the tiny restroom was awkward. Scully had been feeling uncomfortable for the last hour, but wasn't overly concerned until she noticed the blood stains on her underwear. Quiety returning to her seat, she was grateful atleast for the empty space next to her, allowing her some privacy. "This is hormonal, it's normal, it will go away." Dana repeated over and over to herself. After all, fluid discharge was not uncommon, although not exactly expected. Lying back, she tried to get some sleep, thinking that it would only be a matter of hours until she saw Mulder again. Mulder's apartment Checking his e-mail for the fourth time that day, Mulder was surprised that he hadn't heard from Skinner in over four days. Usually, it was atleast every second day, if not more. He was tempted, just out of curiousity to do something he had only thought about; ring Scully. Picking up the phone, he dialed the all too familiar cell nuimber. Surprised at it being turned off, he tried her apartment, getting only her answering machine. Doing, a quick calculation, he determined that it would be about 8:30pm the previous night over there, now why wouldn't Scully's phone be on? He, for no reason, got this ache in the pit of his stomach; something wasn't right. Quickly punching in the other numberhe knew by heart, Mulder was reassured when he heard Byers' voice. "Byers, it's Mulder," he spoke, almostly excitedly. "God, what the hell are you doing down there, you idiot." Byers actually sounded angry. "How do you know where I am?" Mulder was becoming suspicious. "Scully, ah, oh jezz. Look Mulder, lots of things have happened over here. Skinner's dead." Byers informed him. "When - what about Scully?" Mulder was glad he had taken his stomach's advice. "Look, she found out about you and Skinner mailing each other, after he was murdered a few nights ago." "Skinner was dead. Those batasds." Mulder's mind just kept repeating over and over. "Scully tracked down your address - I think she was going to head down to you," Byers contined. "She's not answering her phones, when did you give her the information?" Mulder was getting angry. Scully had taken such a risk, was travelling all this way. "Yesterday. I'd say she's on her way Mulder. She sure is determined about things." Byers sighed. "How is she?" Mulder asked. "Fine, as far as I know, quite lively last time I saw her - that could have been because of you Mulder." He smiled to himself. "Can you find out what flight she left on?" Mulder jumped to the next stage. "Already checking. She left on Qantas flight 512 two hours ago." "Thanks Byers. I'll look it up, she'll get the shock of her life to see me waiting at the airport. that is if I don't kill her for coming." He smiled and hung up the phone. Flight 512 to Sydney, Australia 11:50 pm Eastern standard time. Scully gasped as she opened her eyes. She had been sleeping well until the last nightmare. Quickly realising that it wasn't the nightmare that had woken her, she pressed the call for attendant button. Trying her best not to start crying, she bit her lip as the cramps continued. This was ridiculous. She knew the pain was different from a Brackston Hicks contraction, and that she shouldn't be sweating the way she was. Susannah approached her with a concerned expression. "What's the matter!" She asked, noticing the sweat on Dana's forehead and the fear in her eyes. "I...have pain, cramping, bleeding, something's wrong," Scully spoke between gasps. "You're not going into labour are you?" Susannah rushed on. "No, I'm only twenty-three weeks. Cramping, not contractions." Dana had tears rolling down her cheeks by now, and was attracking quite a bit of attention. "Let's get you out of here. I'll take you into the flight crew's sleeping quarters, do you think you can walk?" Being a trained midwife, Susannah was used to being assigned pregnant passengers, she had even delivered four babies in the air, but this was alarming her. "I think so." Scully stood up, and was surprised when some of the pain wore off, but gasped again as she felt blood trickle down her legs. Luckily, the crew quarters were only about six meters away, and empty. Although it was very small, it did offer some privacy. An addtional advantage was the satallite phone. Susannah was quickly able to contact Qantas' medical personel, and speak to an obstetrician. Relaying all the symptons, Susannah was informed that Dana was most likely suffering from placintal abrution, a serious condition in which the placenta begins to tear away from the inside of the uterus. The bad news was that there was nothing she could do until they landed, just keep the mother still, and relaxed. She could still hear two heartbeats, so it was still ok. They just had to keep it that way for the next eight hourse or so. "My doctor was right, this was selfish of me. I should have never gone after Mulder." Scully spoke as she lay there. The two had developed quite a close relationship, Susannah reminded Scully a bit of Melissa, except more professional. "Gone after who?" Susannah asked with a smile. "A friend. He left after I fould out I was pregnant, it was my mother's fault for losing her temper with him, he's too sensitive," Scully explained. "He's not the father?" Susannah enqired. "No, unfortunately, but I think he will be in every way, except biologically." Scully continued, feeling contented to talk about Mulder. "He'll be glad to see you," she spoke warmly. "He'll be furious with me, espicially now." Scully closed her eyes and slowly drifted into a light sleep. Flight 512 to Sydney, Australia "What's the matter?" Scully asked, immediately worried. "Nothing, I just needed to check how you were feeling. How's the pain?" Susannah spoke calmly. "Still there, but not as bad. Is that good?" Scully had totally lost all medical judgement since this started. "I think so. There's still two strong heartbeats down there. Only two more hours of flight time left," she whispered as Scully went back to sleep. Sydney Australia Stuart casually picked up the phone. "Yeah." he stated in monotone. "There's been a developent in regards to the Mulder situation. You're familiar with the issue?" The familiar voice questioned. "I know it. What's it got to do with me?" Stuart muttered. "He's with you. The partner's on her way down as well," Frank's stern voice informed. "What do you want me to do?" He sighed. "I'm faxing you the flight details through. I want you to monitor the woman. Follow her and report back to us with Mulder's address. I'm including a photo with the fax, so you'll know who you're looking for," Frank concluded. "Fine. When's the fligh due in?" Stuart questioned. "10:10 tonight, your time. Sydney international. It's all there though. Let us know of any developements immediately." With that, Frank hung up. Stuart checked his fax machine, and sure enough the flight details and photograph of Special Agent Dana Scully had arrived. Stuart quickly read through the updating details, although he already knew parts of this particular plan. Flight 512 to Sydney, Australia "I needed to wake you. We'll be landing in about ten mintutes. How's eveything?" "Like I've been through five rounds, and had my insides re-arranged." Scully forced a weak smile. "There's an ambulance waiting at the terminal that will take you to the hospital. I'd feel better if I accompanied you though, it that alright?" Susannah questioned. "Thank-you, but don't you need some rest?" Scully was only too grateful for all her help. "No, I'm used to it. I figured you wouldn't really know many people down here, and I can explain what happened," the brown haired, brown eyed flight attendant offered. "Do you have any children?" Scully felt a need to make some conversation. "No, I'm unable to conceive. I have a cat though" Susannah smiled. Scully tried to think back to what little obstetric training she had done. Placental abruption was quite serious, and there wasn't anything she could do but rest and let her body try to heal itself. "Do you feel more bleeding Dana?" Susannah questioned. "I don't think so, but I can't say for certain either way. I hope not." Scully slowly sat up and shuddered as the pain returned sharply, but then died down. "For safety reasons, it would probably be better if we got you into a seat for landing, but if you don't feel up to it, we don't have to." Susannah compromised. "I don't think I've got the energy to move." Scully whispered as she lay down again. "That's fine. I only had to suggest it for safety reasons. You just lie still, you are extremely pale. I just have to go and check on disembarking arrangments. I'll be back in a minute." Susannah gently brushed Scully's arm as she left. Now alone, all the thoughts returned to her. "Way to go Dana. You disobeied your doctor's orders, risked your children's lives, and Mulder probably going to be so angry he won't even see you." She knew that last statement wasn't true. But, she was going to have to ring his at some point and confess her actions. Sydney International Airport Mulder had been pacing up and down the terminal for the last half an hour. The flowers he had picked up were sweating in his hand. He hadn't seen Dana in three months. What was he meant to say? She certaintly wouldn't be expecting to see him standing here. There weren't many people waiting. Looking around he spotted a woman with two young children, an older couple, a small group of teenagers, and a few other men pacing around. There seemed to be some kind of commotion going on at the service desk though. Staff were busy talking, telephones were ringing, and papers were being passed around. Mulder didn't think anything of it, until three ambulance officer's briskly walked up to the desk, a stretcher in tow. Mulder was able to discretely observe their body language; something was definitly going on. From what he could gather, one of the passengers had become ill during flight and would require emergency medial treatment. Flight 512 to Sydney "Okay, Dana. Now, once the plane's down, you'll be taken to hospital. You can contact anyone you need to once you're there," Susannah comforted Scully. "Thank-you again. I'm so sorry to have put you in this position. I was so stupid," Dana spoke apologitically. "Don't be. I understand why you came. I just hope everything turns out for the best. Ok, we should be down any moment." The two waited expectantly for the comforting sound as the wheels hit the tarmat. "There. Now we just have to taxi in, and we'll get you out of here." Susannah helped Dana sit up and collect her belongings. It wasn't long until the three parametics were at her side. They practically carried her out of the plane before the other passengers and loaded her onto the strecher just outside the aircraft door, Susannah by her side. Sydney International Airport Mulder had waited patiently as the paramedics had rushed into the concorse. It had been announced that there was an ill passenger, and that disembarking would be temperarily halted until they took the passenger off. Mulder sighed. He couldn't wait to see Scully again, although he knew he would have to pretend to be angry at her for coming. Everyone crowded around the boarding gate as the paramedics came running out. Mulder, being as curious as anybody else, peaked through the crowded to get a look at the person in the stretcher and gasped as he saw the unmistakable wave of red hair. "Scully!" Mulder screamed as he unconsciously pushed throuh the crowd and approached the fast-moving party. People were yelling at him left and right, but Scully just reached out for his hand, and started crying. Arriving quickly to the ambulance, a woman whom he didn't know approached him. "I'm sorry sir, who are you?" She questioned compasionatly, but protectively. "Fox Mulder. You?" he spoke instinctively. "Susannah Elliott. You're Mulder? Thank god you're here. I was Ms Scully's flight attendant. Get in, We'll explain on the way." He climbed into the ambulance behing her, joining the distressed Scully. Tightly embracing her, it was like old times again. "What are you doing here?" Mulder questioned. "I couldn't stand it without you any longer. How did you know I was here?" Scully responded. "I hadn't heard from Skinner in days, and I had a hunch that something wasn't right, so I range Byers and he told me you were coming. What happened?" Mulder suddenly became aware of the blood everywhere and the paleness of Scully's face. "I don't know..." Scully trailed off in tears, Mulder instinctly wrapping his arms around her again. "Sir, can we just get some information please?" The paramedics had been extremely patient, but there were three lives at stake. Susannah had informed them of the basic details, but they needed to confirm some things with Scully. "Ms Scully, can you tell us exactly when complications arose?" The younger female paramedic gently asked. "About an hour or so into the flight I noticed slight vaginal bleeding. I stupidly didn't think it was that serious, and felt asleep. I woke up about four hours later with severe abdominal cramping, and the bleeding had increased. I called Susannah, and you pretty much know the rest." Scully's professional tone had taken over; it was almost as if she was talking about another person. "Ok, from what Mrs Elliott tells me, the babies are still alright, but we'll need to admit you for tests and monitoring." The paramedics busied themselves taking blood, inserting IV lines, listening to heartbeats, and conversing amoung themselves. Sydney Women's and Children's Hospital Susannah and Mulder were waiting patiently outside. "Dr Scully, I'm Dr Hagley, we've confirmed the diagnosis of placental abruption, although it's rare for systoms to occur so early into a pregnancy. Everything seems to have stablelized itself now, and your daughters are doing well. I'll just clean up everything down this end for you, and we'll get you settled into a room. Quivkly cleaning up the blood stains, she couldn't help but notive the obvious. This was one for the record books. Alison failed however to mask her shocked expression. "I know, I know. You're the second to comment. A pregnant virgin. It's a long story." Scully was almost becoming quite proud of herself. "I'm sorry, it's none of my business, but as an ob/gyn, it was as obvious as a person without any eyes is to everyone who looks at them." Alison didn't think this women had been insulted by her observation, but she still felt guilty. "What do I have to do to prevent this from re-occurring." Scully asked. "I'm going to recommend complete bed-rest for the next ten weeks or so. It's imperative that you keep as still as possible." Alison instructed. "So I won't be able to fly home before the birth?" Although posing it as a question, Scully already knew the answer. "I wouldn't recommend it." Alison smiled warmly. Sydney International Airport "There been a serious developement," Stuart spoke simply. "Explain," Frank responded. "He was here waiting for her, although there was a complication, and she was rushed to hospital imediately." Stuart informed his boss. "Keep us uptodate." With that he hung up the phone. What was Stuart to do now? There were only two ideas that came to mind; go home to bed or go find out which hospital she was taken to and investigate. Characteristically approacing the service desk, Stuart already had his plane of action sorted. "Excuse me." He demanded to the young woman sitting behind the desk. "How may I help you sir?" She naivly replied. "I arrived too late, they told me my sister, Dana Scully had been rushed to hospital, have you any idea which one?" He played the role of a frantic brother perfectly. "I'll check." The woman picked up the phone, spoke a few words, and soon gave him the answer he needed: "Sydney Women's and Children's sir." She informed him. "Thanks." Stuart comcluded as he quickly left the terminal, very pleased with his actions. Sydney Women's and Children's "How are you?" He replied in that familiar tone. "Tired, but atleat everything's alright. Mulder, you have to understand how guilty I feel, but I knew there would be no other way to get you back. I was coping until Skinner's death, but them suddenly I had no-one. "Scully, I understand." He smiled that childish grin that reflected his compassion. "Is Susannah still out there?" Scully suddenly remebered that the poor woman had been with her all this time. "Yeah, I'll get her." Mulder silently left the room, and Susannah appeared in his place. "Dana, I'm so glad everything worked out for you." She smiled as she hugged the fragile looking woman. "How can I ever thank you enough?" Scully was eternally in debt to this woman's skill. "Glad I could help." Susannah smiled again. "I know I'm probably never see you again, but to be sure I never forget you, I'm naming my first daughter after you." Scully just looked at this woman in amazement; she truely was the most compassionate person she had ever met. It was such a tradjedy that such a beautiful person was not blessed with children. "Thank-you. We'll see eachother agian, you'll be staying until the end of your pregnancy surely?" Susannah queried. "Yes, you're right. Susannah, I was like you until six months ago." Scully felt that if anyone understood what Susannah was feeling, it would be her. "How do you mean?" Susannah asked. "I couldn't have children. I had cancer a year ago, and was rendered infertile, but I was able to harvest a few of my ovum prior to starting treatment, and thanks to science, I'm now pregnant." Scully knew she had bent the truth there, but only as necessary. Susannah sighed and carefully perched herself next to Scully on the bed, preparing to share with her the news that only her husband knew. "Dana, when I was seventeen I was raped. My attackers perferated my uterus, making it virtually impossible for me to carry a child. Oh, Rob and I have discussed adoption, and surregacy, but considering his profession, we decided against it." Susannah admitted to herself that after twenty-eight years it felt good to tell somebody other than her husband. Scully simply leant over and gently squeezed her hand. "What did he do?" Scully continued. "He's a priest. We felt that, considering he's inclinded to set a natural example to society, it would be better if we didn't tamper with medical science. I've managed though. You find other things to base your life around." Susannah, having spoken enough, kissed Dana on the cheek and quietly left the hospital, giving her number to Mulder as she passed him.
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